Putting The Digital In LifeMDIS in the News
MDIS equips students with skills to enhance Singapore’s Smart Nation vision
As Singapore continues on its journey to be empowered by technology, Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) undergraduates Muhammad Saiful Ismal (above right) and Htat Aung Shine (above left) gear up to make a difference in the fields of electronical engineering and information technology (IT).
Excited for the future
Mr Muhammad Saiful, 27, is studying for a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree awarded by Northumbria University, United Kingdom. He aspires to pursue a career in the aerospace industry.
Why did you pick this course?
Prior to this, I studied digital electronics at Republic Polytechnic. I wanted to build on what I learned there, so this programme was a good fit.
Electrical engineering is a fascinating field; it is so diverse because engineering is needed everywhere. For example, without electrical engineering, there would be no computers, lifts or mobile phones.
I enjoy learning new ways to use electrical power to improve products, and to develop analytical, technical and engineering design skills.
How are you enjoying your lessons?
I like how MDIS offers fully equipped engineering laboratories and workshops, and a diverse group of experienced lecturers. I also enjoy the hands-on practical lessons.
A module I found interesting was digital electronics and communication. It was fascinating to learn about logic circuits, binary codes and routers, and how they work to power electronic items such as computers.
How will you equip yourself to contribute to Singapore’s Smart Nation aspirations?
My studies will provide me with the necessary skills as I work towards my future career path. Plus, upcoming internships will give me a sense of the real world and opportunities to interact with industry professionals.
Fighting online crime
Mr Htat Aung Shine, 22, will graduate in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) Information Technology degree awarded by Teesside University, UK. He intends to become a cyber security engineer.
Why did you pick MDIS?
I am interested in IT and want to become a professional in this field. The syllabus grabbed my attention because it specializes in network engineering and cybersecurity. The cost of living in the residence within the school campus is also reasonable, making MDIS ideal.
How will your education help you in your future career?
Today, IT is a major part of our lives. I am proud to be contributing to society by equipping myself with the skills needed to configure networks and protect their confidentiality, integrity and availability. I will be able to utilise my knowledge and skills to fight cybercrime. I am currently designing a network monitoring and packet sniffing software that monitors network traffic and analyses network packets as my final year project.
What will Smart Nation capabilities do for Singapore?
In this era where data is the new currency, Smart Nation efforts will allow for re-skilling and learning computational thinking skills, and e-payments will ensure simple, swift transactions. The growing use of sensors and other Internet of Things devices can also make our city safer to live in.
Source: The Sunday Times, 18 March 2018 © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reproduced with permission. Click here to view PDF.
