Up to 10,000 students and professionals in Singapore will receive free training in artificial intelligence (AI) over the next three years as part of tech giant Oracle's new plans to bolster the nation's digital workforce.
The effort, which cements the firm's 36 years of investment in the island-state, is expected to contribute significantly to Singapore's vision to triple the nation's pool of AI practitioners to 15,000 over the next five years.
This much manpower is needed to tap new opportunities created by generative AI tools, as outlined in Singapore's refreshed AI strategy announced in December 2023.
In a rare and exclusive interview with The Straits Times, Oracle chief executive Safra Catz, 61, who is in Singapore to meet Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, customers and other local officials, said: "Education is one of the things we really care about." Pointing to the firm's tradition of investment in education, she said Oracle runs a public high school on its Redwood City, California, campus a first among tech giants, many of which have instead taken tech lessons and products into existing classrooms.
Students at the US$43 million (S$58 million) Design Tech High School, which opened its doors in 2018 on Oracle's campus, get mentorship from its staff, and internships at the firm. Students also take classes on topics like wearables and robotics.
In Singapore, Oracle has supported computing education in 14 institutes of higher learning over the last 15 years.
This story is from the April 16, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 16, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
PACIFIC VAMPIRE AGAIN RUTHLESS
Two-out-of-two from Jason Ong’s newest revelation may open the door to 4YO riches
BURRIDGE WILL NOT HASTEN NEXT MOVE
Softer option works for honest 3YO, but veteran trainer may revisit Guineas plans
Over 200,000 workers gained Skills via company training panels
NTUC says such committees also help firms transform by harnessing digital tools
AIA S’pore invests over 20m In new wealth team and centre
Insurer is targeting the growing affluent population in the region
Singtel shares drop after it warns of $3.lb impairment provisions
Telecoms giant expects second-half net loss but says dividend payments won’ be hit
Yen rises against US dollar, Singdollar on suspected govt intervention
Japanese banks said to be selling greenback for yen as currency plunged to 34-year low
Kindergarten in the 'heart' of Joo Chiat has stories to tell
Site was where notable political steps were taken by Goh Chok Tong and Teo Chee Hean
Over 800 speeding violations caught via red-light cameras in three weeks
Traffic Police’s activation of key function has expanded enforcement tools against violators
Many Ukrainian ex-POWs suffer lingering traumas
They have injuries from torture and sexual violence, but do not get adequate treatment
ICC preparing arrest warrants over Gaza war: Israeli officials
Warrants could name officials from both Hamas and Israel, including Netanyahu