In a strategic move to secure its workforce’s future and maintain its global competitiveness, Singapore has unveiled ambitious plans to bolster its capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI).
The government has allocated up to $500 million to procure advanced computer chips, laying the groundwork for AI innovation across both private and public sectors.
Singapore’s investment in AI talent development
Under the initiative, over $27 million will be invested in nurturing AI expertise within the local workforce. This investment includes offering 100 AI scholarships for Singaporean students and enticing global experts to collaborate with local institutions.
The objective is to cultivate three distinct AI communities within Singapore, comprising users, creators, and practitioners.
Accelerated masters program and scholarships
A significant portion of the budget will be dedicated to academia, aiming to triple the number of AI practitioners to at least 15,000 over the next five years. Part of this initiative includes the establishment of an accelerated master’s program for AI, halving the period of studies for a Master by Research degree to one year.
Additionally, scholarships totaling at least $20 million will be provided to students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees in AI-related fields under the SG Digital Scholarship program.
Expansion of tech skills accelerator (TeSA) initiative
Singapore is also expanding its TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) initiative, which focuses on training fresh or mid-career workers interested in the tech sector. Since its inception in 2016, TeSA has successfully trained and placed over 17,000 locals in the tech industry, with a staggering 231,000 individuals receiving training under the program.
Infrastructure investment for AI adoption
A significant portion of the allocated funds will be directed toward leasing advanced computer chips, such as GPUs, from global vendors. These chips are crucial for supporting the growing scale of AI models and applications across various sectors, including transport, logistics, healthcare, and financial services.
With Singapore positioning itself as a frontrunner in AI adoption, there is a pressing need to enhance computational power and network connectivity. The investment in infrastructure aims to address these demands, ensuring that Singapore remains at the forefront of AI innovation.
Partnerships and collaboration
The government plans to lease the computer chips from external providers offering AI computational infrastructure as a service. These chips will be housed within government-owned facilities or research partner establishments, providing access to industry stakeholders. This collaborative approach aims to foster innovation and drive strategic advancements in AI technology.
Outlook and prospects
The investment in AI infrastructure and talent development underscores Singapore’s commitment to remaining competitive in the global AI landscape. By nurturing local talent and providing the necessary infrastructure, Singapore aims to not only harness the potential of AI but also generate new value across industries.
