Asia/Pacific News
MPA, ABS Launch Maritime Technology Program at Singapore University
The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) will launch a Maritime Technology Professorship program thanks to a collaboration with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the organisations said in a press release.
The three partners have signed a memorandum of understanding that includes funding for the program of up to S$12.5 million ($10.1 million), with the goal of building SUTD's marine education and research & development capacities.
The five-year program will receive S$2.5 million ($2 million) from ABS and a S$2.5 million grant from MPA's Maritime Innovation and Technology (MINT) fund, and it will also get matching grants from the Singapore government.
SUTD plans to hire a professor or expert in marine or offshore technologies to lead the program, and visiting and resident professors will also be chosen to develop courses and R&D projects for the university's students.
"Singapore plays a fundamental role in ABS worldwide operations and we are proud to support the development of a new University in Singapore through the establishment of a Maritime Technology Professorship Programme," said ABS President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki.
MPA Chief Executive Lam Yi Young said collaborations among the industry, related institutions and the government are crucial for advancements in the maritime sector.
"The Professorship is very much in line with our efforts to promote and develop maritime education and R&D in Singapore," he said.
Patrick Phoon, president of the Singapore Shipping Association, said recently that Singapore's maritime industry enjoys strong support from the government and is working to encourage young people to be involved in the sector.
