Launch of New Course to Upskill PMETs With Artificial Intelligence Skills

Keen on exploring a career in cybersecurity but have no IT skills whatsoever? Fret not, a new course that has just been launched will transform you into a tech savvy professional in just one year!

Launched by the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Association of Information Security Professionals (AiSP) and Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB), the new Design x AI x Tech (Cybersecurity) Certification Programme is targeted at professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs)¹ looking to transition into the cybersecurity industry despite not having an IT background. It is part of a broader national effort to promote lifelong learning and upskilling the workforce.

Similar courses for other industries may follow.

Back row (from left to right): SMS Tan Kiat How, Patron of AiSP & Advisor to Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB) and Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development & Information & Ministry of National Development; Professor Phoon Kok Kwang, President, SUTD. Front row (from left to right): Ms Sherin Y Lee, Vice-President of AiSP; Mr Bernard Menon, Director, NTUC U PME; Mr John Leong, Director, SUTD Academy; Mr Maxim Tint, President, Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB)

Unlike many existing courses, the new Design x AI x Tech (Cybersecurity) programme will go beyond the classroom and offer internship opportunities to participants so that they have hands-on experience in applying their cybersecurity knowledge in a real-world environment. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped with relevant skills to address emerging threats and protect their organisation effectively.

The six- to 12-month programme has been meticulously crafted to train cybersecurity professionals responsible for safeguarding Security Operation Centres (SOC) and Operational Technology (OT) systems, including industrial controls like the Industrial control systems (ICS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. The programme will also cover Design Innovation and AI application in security analytics. Through it, participants will develop critical skills in risk management, learn to identify vulnerabilities, and implement risk reduction strategies. They will also design and manage robust security measures tailored for OT environments, ensuring that they comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements. The curriculum includes comprehensive training on monitoring security threats, leading incident response efforts, maintaining systems, and collaborating across teams to fortify security. In addition, the programme prepares participants for the Qualified Information Security Professional (QISP) certification from the AiSP, signifying their expertise and readiness to protect critical infrastructure against cyber threats.

Patron of AiSP and Advisor to TTAB, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and National Development Tan Kiat How said, "This collaboration exemplifies the unique approach in Singapore where the labour movement, industry partners and academia work closely together to create more opportunities for Singaporeans. Through this partnership, we aim to support more Singaporeans to embark on meaningful careers in the fast-growing cybersecurity sector and contribute to a safer digital economy."

SUTD President Professor Phoon Kok Kwang shared: "AI is such a buzzword these days but how many people actually know how to use it effectively? For most people, AI means ChatGPT. AI is so much more and used effectively, can improve lives in ways never thought possible."

"I think it is most timely for SUTD, NTUC, AiSP and TTAB to co-curate this unique programme that will upskill our workforce in AI skills. This Design x AI x Tech (Cybersecurity) Certification Programme will help reskill and upskill talent to meet especially the needs of the cybersecurity sector. SUTD's signature design x AI x technology education philosophy as well as the internship component of the programme will help ensure the relevancy of skills participants obtained during the course of their study," he said.

Mr Bernard Menon, Director of UPME at National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) shared: "NTUC is proud to support the launch of the Design x AI x Tech (Cybersecurity) Certification Programme, which represents a significant step forward in addressing the growing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals. The course would allow our PMEs to upskill and contribute better towards their organisations or transit into the cybersecurity industry with the necessary skills. By offering a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, the course will provide invaluable opportunities for workers to enhance their skill sets. This initiative aligns with NTUC's commitment to lifelong learning and career development, ensuring that our workforce is well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the digital landscape and contribute meaningfully to their organisations and the cybersecurity industry."

The new certification programme will commence in the second quarter of 2025. As this programme falls under the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP), the fees can be partially subsidised using SkillsFuture credits. Further subsidies can also be received from the Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP).

1 According to the Singapore Digital Economy Report 2023, there are about 200,000 PMETs in Singapore singapore-digital-economy-report-2023.pdf (imda.gov.sg)