Singapore to Have Next Generation Broadband Networks

Plans for Singapore's Next Generation National Infocomm Infrastructure and Manpower development were announced by Dr Lee Boon Yang, Minister for Communications, Information and the Arts, in Parliament today...

Singapore, 03 March 2006 | For Immediate Release

And Enhanced National Infocomm Scholarship Programme

Plans for Singapore's Next Generation National Infocomm Infrastructure and Manpower development were announced by Dr Lee Boon Yang, Minister for Communications, Information and the Arts, in Parliament today.

These developments are part of the iN2015 master plan that will transform Singapore into a global leading city, where Infocomm becomes intrinsic to how we live, learn, work and play. The master plan will be launched in June 2006.

The developmental programmes for the two key areas of infrastructure and manpower in the Infocomm sector are detailed in the accompanying Fact Sheets.

Briefly:

Next Generation National Infocomm Infrastructure (Next Gen NII).

This is Singapore's new digital super-highway for super-connectivity. Next Gen NII has two components: A wired broadband network that will deliver ultra-high broadband speeds to all homes, offices and schools, while a wireless broadband network will offer pervasive connectivity around Singapore.

Data trends suggest exponential growth in network traffic will continue. Ultra-high speed broadband pipes are necessary conduits for the future. Infocomm infrastructure has been an enabler and a source of competitive advantage for Singapore. Such strategic foresight has served Singapore well.

Next Gen NII is Singapore's economic energiser, enabling quantum transformation in the way we will work, live and play.

Infocomm Manpower Development Updates

Infocomm talent is critical to Singapore's continued leadership as the location of choice for Infocomm business and innovation.

Last November, IDA announced a $120 million five-year roadmap to develop Singapore's Infocomm manpower capabilities.

Part of that roadmap is the National Infocomm Scholarships (NIS) programme that aims to hone the next generation of Infocomm talent. The programme received two booster shots today:

• There are now 100 more National Infocomm Scholarships to be awarded over the next five years, in addition to the 90 scholarship places previously planned. As a result, an additional $30 million will be pumped into this programme, on top of the $9 million previously set aside.
• The Singapore Management University and the world-renowned Carnegie Mellon University will offer a joint programme that lets NIS scholars studying in SMU to graduate with a Bachelor of Science (Information Systems Management) degree along with a master's degree in IT from Carnegie Mellon.

About Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore

The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) is committed to growing Singapore into a dynamic global infocomm hub. IDA uses an integrated approach to developing infocommunications in Singapore. This involves nurturing a competitive telecoms market as well as a conducive business environment with programmes and schemes for both local and international companies.For more information, visit https://www.imda.gov.sg/  

For media clarification, please contact: 

HO Ka Wei (Mr)
Manager
Corporate and Marketing Communications
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
FAX : 6211 2227
E-mail: info@imda.gov.sg

Jenny NG (Ms)
Manager
Corporate and Marketing Communications
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
DID : 6211 1341
FAX : 6211 2227
E-mail: jenny_ng@imda.gov.sg