News Release - Swiss Brand BERNINA and ITE Sign a Memorandum of Understanding

Singapore, 20 October 2023 – In a groundbreaking move that underlines their shared commitment to innovation and lifelong learning, BERNINA Singapore and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that marks the beginning of an inspiring partnership.

This historic MoU signing ceremony, held at ITE College East, also the location of the ITE-BERNINA Service Training Centre and Makerspace, brings together two prominent entities dedicated to the advancement of education, innovation, and skills development. The event serves as a testament to Singapore's continuous drive towards fostering a culture of innovation and equipping its citizens with the tools for lifelong learning.

Mr Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, officiated the signing of the MoU today.

BERNINA Singapore, a renowned name in the world of sewing and embroidery technology, has its focus and developments on education, with Singapore as its anchor in Asia. This evolution mirrors the nation's commitment to adaptability and embracing change. Through this partnership, BERNINA Singapore will play a pivotal role in helping ITE students and adult learners acquire valuable skills that are crucial for career progression and personal development.

ITE, an institution celebrated for its excellence in technical education, stands as the perfect partner for this initiative. As Singapore's leading provider of technical and vocational training, ITE is at the forefront of preparing individuals for the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving job market. The MoU reaffirms ITE's dedication to nurturing a new generation of innovators and leaders.

The partnership between BERNINA Singapore and ITE is rooted in a shared vision of empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the 21st century. This partnership will enable students and adult learners to access cutting-edge technology, gain practical experience, and embark on a journey of lifelong learning.

Key highlights of the MoU include:

1. Collaborative Workshops and Training: ITE students and adult learners will have access to specialised workshops and training programmes that will be conducted across all three colleges of ITE. These programmes will provide hands-on experience with state-of-the-art sewing and embroidery technology.

2. Research and Development Initiatives: Both parties will collaborate on research and development projects focusing on STEM Education to push the boundaries of sewing and embroidery technology. This will not only enhance the industry but also create new opportunities for students to engage in innovative projects.

3. Internships and Industry Exposure: Students will have the opportunity to participate in internships and gain valuable industry exposure through BERNINA Singapore's network, preparing them for a seamless transition into the workforce.

4. Support for Lifelong Learning: The partnership will support adult learners in their pursuit of lifelong learning, allowing them to upskill and reskill to meet the demands of an ever-changing job market.

5. Alignment with SkillsFuture: This partnership is in perfect alignment with Singapore's SkillsFuture agenda, reinforcing the nation's commitment to equipping its citizens with the skills they need for the future.

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Ms Katharina Ueltschi, Managing Director of BERNINA Singapore stated, "Our transformation into an educational entity is driven by a shared vision with ITE – one that emphasises the importance of innovation and lifelong learning. We are excited to be part of this journey and look forward to empowering the future workforce with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age."

Ms Low Khah Gek, Chief Executive Officer of ITE, said, “In today’s fast-changing world, innovation has become more important than ever. The partnership with BERNINA helps to foster innovation among our students, by enabling them to express their creativity and acquire valuable coding skills through digital sewing. It also encourages the development of an entrepreneurial spirit, as the students learn to produce and market their crafts for sale.” 

This MoU signing marks the beginning of a dynamic partnership that promises to make a significant impact on education and innovation in Singapore. Together, BERNINA Singapore and ITE are setting the stage for a brighter, more innovative future.