Microsoft has announced the launch of their Datacenter Academy (DCA) based in Singapore – a first in Asia.
The DCA, created in partnership with the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), will provide data centre skills education to more than 300 students over five years. This will help close the data centre technology skills gap in the region.
“As we build a resilient, digitally inclusive future for Singapore, we must close the gap between skilling and employability while ensuring that our people have relevant skills and opportunities for success,” said Lee Hui Li, Singapore Managing Director at Microsoft.
The DCA will help address the labor shortage to the benefit of the data centre industry, while at the same time boosting digital services for businesses and individuals.
“As we embrace digital perseverance across business, government, and our local communities, we remain focused on making intentional investments in Singapore as we deepen our ecosystem of partnerships. This will strengthen our capabilities at all levels of society and deliver broad, inclusive economic growth for our shared future,” added Li.
The course of study at the DCA aligns with the practical knowledge required by data centre employees, focused on infrastructure management, troubleshooting, and support. The facility will include a sustainable learning lab for hands-on training and practical application of study.
Students at the DCA can also access experiential training in AI, analytics, automation, and cybersecurity. The students will gain knowledge and skills that integrate into the existing career tracks at ITE, along with mentorship and other professional development resources. In the end, successful students will earn a Diploma, or Certificate of Completion, which will provide industry-level accreditations to support career endeavors.
“This is a fast-growing industry and our collaboration with a strong market leader will position our trainees at the forefront of industry trends. With Microsoft, we can nurture talents for the industry and prepare them for exciting careers in this increasingly digital environment,” said Low Khah Gek, Chief Executive Officer of ITE.
ITE and Microsoft also made plans to offer scholarships to cover tuition costs for up to 20 ITE students. Upon graduation, top students will have the opportunity to interview for open positions at the Microsoft data centres in the region.
At the same time, Microsoft announced a partnership with Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) to address sustainability and climate-related issues. Through this partnership, the company hopes to develop software and solutions to help industries do more with less.
