MDA awards S$560,000 to groom media talents 14 recipients get opportunity to pursue their passion and nurture their media skills

MDA received an overwhelming 103 applications. Among the 14 successful applicants, four recipients will attend producing, directing, cinematography and digital film courses at Ngee Ann Polytechnic and School of Audio Engineering (SAE). The remaining 10 students have expressed interest in attending courses on film and TV production, scriptwriting and animation courses at reputable overseas institutions in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia. The recipients, the institutions they have chosen and intended courses of study are listed at Annex A.

MDA CEO Mr Lim Hock Chuan presented the awards to the recipients at an awards ceremony held this afternoon. Mr Lim said, "The media business is about talents. To grow the industry, we must nurture our talents so they can contribute to the industry. Grooming our talents is a key strategy in our Media 21 blueprint to grow Singapore into a vibrant global media city. I am happy to present the awards to the recipients today. I look forward to seeing them complete their studies and apply what they have learnt to inject more vibrancy and creativity to the local media fraternity after their graduation."

Mr Perry Ho who is pursuing a BA in Creative Arts in Melbourne was delighted by the support given by the MDA to develop media talents. He said, "MDA has given a boost of a helping hand because this award has given me a chance to do what I have always wanted, that is, to craft a tale." Agreeing, Mr Erwin Lian Cheng Zhi, who is pursuing a BA in Fine Arts, Columbus College of Art and Design in the US, added, "I've always dreamt of being a world class animator. The MDA awards has provided me with the hope and opportunity to realise my dream."

Recipients of the Media Education Scheme Awards were selected based on their academic and creative potential;achievements, track record and relevant experience;benefit and value of the chosen course of studies to the recipient and to the development of Singapore's media industry. Recipients who opt for media-related courses at overseas institutions are eligible for tuition fees of up to S$40,000 per year or subject to a maximum of S$100,000. They will be required to fulfil a service commitment of up to two years working in media-related companies in Singapore within five years of their graduation. Those pursuing courses at local institutions are eligible for tuition fees of up to S$10,000 per year, subject to a maximum of S$20,000, but do not need to fulfil any service commitment.

MDA aims to groom more than 500 talents over a five-year period under the various media manpower development schemes. This will build up a critical mass of media talents that will help MDA to grow a vibrant media industry and develop Singapore into a global media city.

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