Singaporean Students Embark on Learning Journey in the Philippine
The Women in Security Alliance Philippines (WiSAP) and the Association of Information Security Professionals (AiSP) of Singapore recently united to create a unique and transformative initiative – the AiSP Learning Journey. From April 8th to 12th, 2024, this program offered an unparalleled learning experience for Nanyang Polytechnic School of Information Technology (NYP) and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Singapore students. With the support of the National Youth Council of Singapore, this journey aimed to equip these future cybersecurity professionals with invaluable insights into the Philippine cybersecurity landscape, a perspective they wouldn’t have gained otherwise.
The program meticulously crafted a diverse itinerary that immersed students in a rich tapestry of industry visits and academic exchanges. Leading cybersecurity consultancy NCC Group Philippines shared their expertise in threat detection and response, while global giant Trend Micro illuminated their innovative solutions for combating cybercrime. Acumen IT Training Inc., a prominent player in the IT training sphere, showcased its programs designed to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap. These experiences not only broadened the students’ horizons but also deepened their understanding of the cybersecurity field.
Government institutions also played a pivotal role in enriching the students’ understanding. The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC) provided a glimpse into their efforts to combat cyber threats within the Philippines. Additionally, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure.
The academic sphere was not overlooked. Visits to the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) and Aisa Pacific College (APC) exposed the students to diverse educational programs, fostering discussions on the evolving nature of cybersecurity education. AIM, renowned for its focus on leadership development, emphasized the importance of soft skills in navigating today’s intricate cyber landscape. With its robust IT programs, APC showcased various pathways aspiring cybersecurity professionals can pursue.
Beyond institutional presentations, the program featured insightful talks from esteemed Singaporean lecturers Lawrence Tham (NYP) and Peh Wee Leng (ITE). Tham’s presentation offered a comprehensive overview of NYP, highlighting its strong industry linkages and commitment to holistic student development. He utilized inspiring success stories of NYP alumni who have secured positions at prestigious universities and leading tech companies, further solidifying the institution’s dedication to excellence.
On the other hand, Peh Wee Leng explained the Singaporean education system, specifically focusing on the ITE framework. He elaborated on Higher NITEC courses, Work-Study Diploma programs, and how ITE equips students with the necessary skills to tackle cyber challenges.
The AiSP Learning Journey went beyond knowledge sharing. It was a platform that fostered cultural exchange and built bridges between aspiring cybersecurity professionals in Singapore and the Philippines. By strategically combining industry insights, academic engagement, and international collaboration, this initiative has the potential to significantly shape the future of cybersecurity in both nations. As the fight against cybercrime evolves into a global endeavor, such collaborative efforts serve as a powerful model for building a more secure digital future for Singapore, the Philippines, and the world.
