SMU Academy forges new learning pathways with polytechnics and ITE to fast-track workforce upskilling

Singapore Management University’s (SMU) professional training arm, SMU Academy, marked its inaugural SMU Academy Day 2025 with a milestone partnership aimed at redefining adult education and talent development in Singapore.

At the event themed “The Upskilling Imperative: Bold Moves to Transform Your Talent”, SMU Academy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Singapore’s five polytechnics—Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, and Temasek Polytechnic—and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE)—a first-of-its-kind collaboration to formalise the recognition of relevant prior learning and professional experience.

Witnessed by Tan Wee Beng, Deputy Chief Executive, Operations and Regulations of SkillsFuture Singapore, and Professor Lily Kong, SMU President, the agreement enables polytechnic advanced and specialist diploma holders to receive credit exemptions towards SMU Academy’s Industry Graduate Diploma (IGD) and Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) programmes. It also establishes new, direct progression pathways for ITE diploma graduates to work towards graduate-level qualifications.

Under the agreement, eligible polytechnic post-diploma graduates may receive up to six module credits, with an additional one to two credits granted for relevant work experience, depending on programme relevance. For ITE diploma graduates, this marks the first time they can progress directly into a graduate-level qualification at SMU.

This initiative significantly broadens SMU Academy’s previous admission framework, which required applicants to hold at least a polytechnic diploma and 10 years of work experience. By mapping out clearer, shorter, and more inclusive learning routes, the MOU strengthens Singapore’s lifelong learning ecosystem, reducing duplication of effort while enabling faster access to advanced qualifications.

Professor Kong said, “In a world of constant change, standing still is the greatest risk. Learners must have a positive and proactive mindset towards lifelong learning, and institutions must collaborate more deeply than ever to create seamless pathways across different stages of learning. The impact of this MOU is significant: a deeper respect for the expertise our learners already bring, enabling a shorter time to achieve a degree, and greater and timely relevance for the workplace.”

Echoing this, Jack Lim, Executive Director of SMU Academy, described the partnership as a “game changer” in adult education and elaborated, “By working with polytechnics and ITE, and creating new models of learning continuity, we enable polytechnic post-diploma holders to fast-track their graduate-level studies at SMU Academy. At the same time, we are opening a new pathway for ITE diploma graduates, so they too can progressively advance towards graduate-level qualifications.”

In a further push to strengthen its role in workforce development and HR innovation, SMU will be an exhibitor at HR Tech Asia 2026, taking place from 4-7 May 2026 at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The annual flagship event, organised by HRM Asia, will focus on the future of work, bringing together C-suite executives, HR leaders, and industry pioneers to explore how HR can drive meaningful change amid disruption. Attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions, dynamic power talks, high-impact workshops, and exclusive site tours focused on employee wellbeing, organisational agility, AI breakthroughs, and the seamless integration of HR and technology.

To find out more about HR Tech Asia 2026, click here.