Opening Remarks by Ms Low Khah Gek, CEO/ITE, at the ITE Work-Study Diploma Graduation Ceremony 2025

Mr Andrew Chong, Chairman, ITE

Members of the ITE Board of Governors

Industry Partners

Graduands and Parents

ITE Colleagues

Ladies and Gentlemen

1.                  Today marks a significant milestone for 892 WSDip graduands from 40 WSDip programmes. They have successfully completed their 2.5 years work-study diploma programme through their diligence, grit and determination. These qualities are demonstrated at both the company’s workplace as well as at ITE campus.

2.                  The Work-Study Diploma is a unique model of applied learning that demands exceptional focus and commitment. Over the last 2.5 years, the graduands had to juggle full-time employment and their studies. There are three areas of commitment:

a)            They must ensure they perform at work, deliver outcomes and create value for their companies.

b)            They must treasure and be conscientious about the training provided on-the-job by their supervisors and company trainers.

c)            They return to ITE for learning on campus which focus on theoretical and conceptual understanding as well as discussion with peers.  

3.                  I commend all our graduands for your tremendous growth, both professionally and personally. We congratulate all of you. Your employers and supervisors, as well as your lecturers and parents are all tremendously proud of you!

Stories of Transformation and Grit

Allow me to share the WSDip journeys of two graduands:

4.                  In 2020, Nurul Rashidah Bte Ismail made a bold decision to leave her full-time job as a graphic designer to enrol in ITE as a full-time student and pursue a Nitec in Chemical Process Technology (CPT). She had switched industry! Nurul graduated in 2022 with an impressive GPA of 3.9. During her Nitec, Nurul did her internship at Novabay (Humens Group) and the company was so impressed with her that they offered to sponsor her for the WSDip in Chemical Process Technology programme.  Nurul continued to excel and achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA in her WSDip. The company has invested in her professional growth by sending her for specialised training, boosting her confidence and expertise.  Nurul is all set for building a good career! He bold industry switch in 2020 has paid off but more importantly, she has been focussed, diligent and determined to succeed. Nurul will be awarded the Gold Medal today for coming in top of her cohort. Congratulations, Nurul!

5.                  Jishnu S/O A Selappan from the WSDip in Mechanical & Electrical Services Supervision started his diploma programme at Precast Concrete Pte Ltd as a Technician. In the last 2.5 years, Jishnu's dedication and outstanding performance had led to his company giving him greater responsibilities and recognition. He earned the title of M&E Supervisor and was involved in two large projects, He now oversees large projects, including the construction of a 5-storey data centre and a 10-storey industrial building, working directly with contractors, consultants, and clients to ensure timely completion. Jishu has topped his class with a GPA of 3.8 and will be awarded the Gold Course Medal. Congratulations, Jishnu!

Innovation and Creativity in Company Projects

6.                  As part of the WSDip curriculum, WSDip trainees have to complete a company project that will add new value to the companies by improving existing or creating new products, solutions or services. Today, nine of these innovative projects are exhibited in the Hall outside. Let me briefly highlight one project.

7.                  Kimmo Yeo Chiang Yew from the WSDip in Electrical Engineering, developed a time-triggered energy storage solution for his employer, Lincstech Circuit Singapore Pte Ltd. Kimmo’s solution ensures that in the event of a power voltage dip, critical equipment like the air quality control scrubber system will continue to function. This targeted solution by Kimmo has enabled the company to keep its commitment to maintaining high-quality voltage stability and work efficiency across its production processes.  

8.                  I invite all guests to have a look at the nine projects and appreciate how the  WSDip graduands’ innovations have created new value for their respective employers.

Our Industry Partners: Enablers of Success

9.                  A key factor of success of our WSDip programmes is the unwavering support from our industry partners. You have journeyed with the WSDip trainees, onboarded them to their job-roles, provided them training, guidance and support as well as demonstrate your belief in their potential by giving them various work situations and challenges. To our 335 industry partners for the Class of 2025, thank you for partnering ITE as co-educators. Thank you also for enabling 892 graduands to successfully achieve their diploma.

Career Growth and Aspiration beyond WSDip

10.              WSDip graduates have not only achieved a diploma, they have also achieve career progression as they are promoted to job-roles with greater responsibilities. Their earning power has likewise increased. For many WSDip graduates, they continued to be ambitious and determined to pursue further skills upgrading and higher education. They pursue degree courses with the support of their employers. One such example is Ahmad Khan, a graduate from the WSDip in Land Transport Engineering. After his diploma, he was promoted by SBS Transit Rail Pte Ltd to be an Assistant Engineer, overseeing and managing both internal and external training programmes for staff. He is currently pursing a part-time degree at Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) for a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Infrastructure and Systems Engineering.

Conclusion

11.              Graduands, while your time at ITE draws to a close, your journey of professional and personal growth continues. I urge you to always be resilient, curious and embrace lifelong learning. In the years ahead, may you continue to grow, lead, and contribute to your respective industries and communities. Once again, congratulations!

Thank you.