incoRPorate - Issue 1 / 2012

Published for industry partners of Republic Polytechnic

inCelebration RP turns 10!

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inFocus Taking Flight Together

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inNovation Strong Boost to R&D

2012 Issue No. 1

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inConversation BONJOUR!

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inCelebration

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Editor’s Message

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he year 2012 holds special meaning for Republic Polytechnic (RP) as we celebrate our 10th Anniversary. The youngest polytechnic in Singapore – RP has now grown in stature through the heartwarming support of our stakeholders.

Taking Flight Together. See Page 7.

Features inCelebration RP turns 10!

Winners of the FedEx Access Award Accredited by THE-ICE inPartnership Career Fair 2012 RP Island Chicken Health, Wellness and Nutrition Discovery Day inExchange RP-Continuum Furniture Design Workshop Jamming with the World inFocus Taking Flight Together inReality Graduate Clinches Film Award inNovation Strong Boost to R&D Chikungunya or Dengue? inConversation BONJOUR! inProfile The Transforming Educator

Be it student numbers, programme offerings, workforce or industry engagement, RP has gone from strength to strength.

We will continue to strive for excellence and contribute to the nation’s increased demand for pre-employment and continuing education training.

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The recent Singapore Airshow set a new record for visitorship, as well as the value of contracts signed. RP has benefited from this buoyant mood. This issue, incoRPorate highlights the partnership RP has forged in the aerospace industry, and the onsite infrastructure we have developed for student’s training and research. Both will enable RP to take flight in tandem with the promising industry.

Mr Ong shared how RP grew from the first intake of 800 students back in 2003, to over 14,000 students now coming through RP’s doors every day. The achievements that RP attained were also highlighted, particularly on industry partnerships where RP secured over 1,000 collaborations for student internship placements in the past two years.

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incoRPorate says ‘hello’ to Yew Chan, RP’s new Director for the Office of Technology Development and finds out his plans for the department.

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In the blink of an eye, the first quarter of the year has passed.

While we work towards achieving our goals for 2012, do remember to take a breather whenever possible. Join us in one or more of our 10th Anniversary celebrations and experience the true One-RP spirit in all its magnificence.

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“The numbers that I have shared with you are impressive.

The RP story in the last 10 years is one that we, and all those who passed through these doors, can be proud of,” he said.

The RP 10th Anniversary logo was then unveiled amidst beautiful display of fireworks. The ceremony ended on a high note with a lion dance performance by RP’s alumni, paying tribute to their alma mater.

Editor-in-Chief Ronald Wong

We welcome inputs from our readers. If you have an article or suggestion to improve incoRPorate, please email help-occ@rp.edu.sg

Editors Josephine Teo • Joey Tang Writers Marinne Santiago • Karsten Cramer Design L’arc-en-ciel Creatives

incoRPorate is published by the Office of Corporate Communications, in partnership with Office of Technology Development and Office of Industry and Collaboration, Republic Polytechnic, 9 Woodlands Ave 9, Singapore 738964. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Information is correct at time of print.

“y-Craft” from RP School of Infocomm clinches the FedEx Access Award in the Asia Pacific Region category.

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fter winning the Singapore leg of JA’s Company of the Year Competition, Republic Polytechnic’s (RP) “y-Craft” team did the institution proud once more by winning the prestigious FedEx Access Award at the Asia Pacific finals held from 15 to 18 February 2012. “y-Craft” created gifts such as a multi-use pen which included a USB drive and presentation pointer, and other products to help build their clients’ brands. Their business plan presented the most potential for business growth and global expansion. It also delivered positive impact on the society through job creation and environmental sustainability. Notably, “y-Craft” was the only team that demonstrated selling into corporate market and sourcing internationally.

“I am very impressed with the maturity of all the companies, particularly y-Craft and their application of Access in their business model,” said Mr David L. Cunningham, President of FedEx Express Asia Pacific.

Ronald Wong

The competition is jointly organised by FedEx Express and JA Worldwide (the world’s largest organisation dedicated to educating students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy).

Top Deputy Chairman of RP’s Board of Governors Mr Ong Chao Choon (L) and RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow (R) jointly set off the 10th Anniversary celebrations.

Bottom Board members and RP management with the lion dance troupe.

Adviser Seto Lok Yin

Winners of the FedEx Access Award

January 2012 was a significant day as Republic Polytechnic (RP) kick started its 10th Anniversary celebrations. The event was greeted by Deputy Chairman of RP’s Board of Governors Mr Ong Chao Choon, other board members, RP’s management, staff, and students.

Enjoy reading!

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Accredited by THE-ICE

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P School of Hospitality (SOH) is accredited by The International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (THE-ICE). Despite being a young school, SOH’s strong support and linkages with the industry, community and overseas institutions impressed the auditors from THE-ICE. They also found the commitment and quality of the school’s advisory board, facilities, qualification of teaching staff, and student support services to be first-rate.

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inPartnership

inPartnership

Career Fair 2012

Health, Wellness and Nutrition Discovery Day

The annual Republic Polytechnic (RP) Career Fair held on 31 January 2012 saw 60 companies participating and more than 3,000 students attending, making this the largest career fair RP has organised since 2006.

On 7 December 2011, Republic Polytechnic (RP) organised the Health, Wellness and Nutrition Discovery Day. The theme for this seminar was “Managing Health and Improving Quality of Life through Innovation”.

Graced by Guest-of-Honour Mr Lim Teck Yin, CEO of Singapore Sports Council, the seminar allowed participants to experience and discover three ‘Innovation Pavilions’ in the areas of health technology, nutrition, and wellness.

This year’s Career Fair recorded over 3,400 job opportunities that spanned across various industries in both private and public sectors. The good participation rate was a testimony of strong support from industry partners in the midst of a slowing global economic growth.

RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow (second from right) presenting a token of appreciation to Far East Organization.

The Career Fair offered employers excellent recruitment and branding opportunities. Apart from promoting their companies, the employers also shared with RP students and graduates the employment opportunities in their organisations. In fact, companies such as Singapore Airlines, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital conducted on-campus interviews and got first-hand screening and selection of potential candidates. 40 students were eventually offered permanent positions in these companies.

(L-R): Assistant Manager of Eu Yan Sang Singapore Mr Andy Goh, Managing Director of Eu Yan Sang Singapore Mr Vincent Lim, RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow and RP’s Deputy Principal (Industry Services) Mr Seto Lok Yin.

Top RP Island Chicken Bottom RP’s hospitality students (centre in white) and Chef Instructor Flora Lam (extreme right in white) strike a thumbs-up with The Chicken Rice Shop management.

The new partnership between RP and NEC covers a joint lab collaboration that seeks to raise industry and student communities’ awareness of the capabilities and technologies of RFID/Digital Signage.

Deputy Managing Director of Renesas Electronics Singapore Mr Totsuka Takashi (L) and RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow (R).

In conjunction with the official opening of The Chicken Rice Shop’s new branch at Causeway Point on 9 March 2012, The Chicken Rice Shop launched a special dish ‘RP Island Chicken’ – a creation by students of Republic Polytechnic’s (RP) School of Hospitality.

The RP Island Chicken is available at all The Chicken Rice Shop’s outlets from 14 March to 30 April 2012.

The joint lab will serve as a vehicle to promote both RP and NEC as leading centres for RFID/Digital Signage research. The know-how will benefit the industry in real world business uses.

With sound advice from RP’s chef instructors, two second-year students from the Diploma in Hotel and Hospitality Management Lim Shu Qin Sharon and Muhammad Nur Iyliaq Bin Kamsol created the RP Island Chicken – honeygrilled boneless chicken, infused with smoked flavourings and dressed with pineapple salsa (as pictured).

“We are delighted to have students from Republic Polytechnic’s School of Hospitality create an exciting new chicken dish for the opening. Our collaboration with the students went very smoothly and we are satisfied with the results. We sure hope our customers will find this dish delectable as well,” said Mrs Vivienne Tan, Director of The Chicken Rice Shop.

International experts and industry maven also shared on how technology and outdoor activities can benefit overall health and improve the quality of life. During the event, RP renewed memoranda of understanding (MOU) with Eu Yan Sang Singapore and Renesas Electronics Singapore, and signed a new MOU with NEC Asia Pacific.

RP and Renesas’ collaboration would enable RP students to learn the latest technologies from the top microcomputer supplier in the world as their products are used in RP labs for student-related learning activities.

RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow (R) presenting a token of appreciation to Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

RP Island Chicken

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– Mr Leonard Oh, Director, NEC Asia Pacific

Guests visiting the Innovation Pavilions which showcased the projects that RP has with industry partners.

(L-R): Director of NEC Asia Pacific Mr Leonard Oh, Vice President of NEC Asia Pacific Mr Joseph Tan, RP’s Principal/CEO Mr Yeo Li Pheow and RP’s Deputy Principal (Industry Services) Mr Seto Lok Yin.

inExchange

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inFocus

RP-Continuum Furniture Design Workshop

Taking Flight Together

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ngaged by SPRING Singapore, Republic Polytechnic’s (RP) School of Technology for the Arts worked with Continuum, a global design and innovation consultancy, to conduct a two-day Furniture Design Workshop for furniture SMEs (small and medium enterprises) on 23 and 24 February 2012.

Managing Director of Continuum Shanghai Mr Chris Hosmer sharing on “Design Innovation for Commercialisation”.

The first day of the workshop started with a forum, inviting notable speakers in the design industry. Managing Director of New Black Global Trends, Ms Genty Marshall presented her keynote address on “Trend Analysis & Forecasting” where she shared tips and tricks to identify the next big thing for business growth. Other speakers include Mr Federico Ferretti, Senior Designer of Continuum Milan, Mr Chris Hosmer, Managing Director of Continuum Shanghai and Mr Sean Koh, Adjunct Professor from Singapore Management University.

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he global economy has seen plenty of storms in recent years, yet the outlook for the global aerospace industry appears to be clear skies ahead.

If the recent Singapore Airshow 2012 is anything to go by, the global aerospace industry is certainly showing positive signals.

Deals worth $31 billion were signed during the event – more than three times the value of deals signed during the 2010 show.

Such strong results paint an optimistic picture for the industry’s long-term outlook.

Participants sharing their observations from the field trip to electronic stores.

Jamming with the World

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n collaboration with International Game Developers Association (IGDA), the Global Game Jam Singapore 2012 was held on 27 January 2012 in Republic Polytechnic (RP). The Global Game Jam (GGJ) is an annual event that attracts participants from all over the world to come together to create games within a 48-hour time period.

RP returned as a host venue this year for game designers and developers to pit their creativity and skills. The event was graced by Mr Allan Simonsen, President of IGDA Singapore. This year was exceptional as the event was kicked off worldwide by industry luminaries: John Romero, Brenda Brathwaite, Gonzalo Frasca, Baiyon, and Will Wright.

“We try to do our part for Singapore’s game industry by hosting the Global Game Jam Singapore. For us, it’s about building a sense of community among game designers here which naturally also helps our game design students. It plugs them into industry and gives them a competitive platform to consolidate what they’ve learnt in the classroom. It’s a win-win,” said Ms Lian Pek, Director of RP School of Technology for the Arts.

Participants presenting their game prototype on the final day of the Global Game Jam 2012.

The skies are buzzing in Asia, and Singapore’s aerospace industry is charting a promising course.

For the global commercial maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) market, one industry estimate predicts that this will grow at 3.6% per year over the next 10 years to reach $58 billion.

The second part of the workshop was a design thinking workshop facilitated

by Continuum and RP School of Technology for the Arts.

Participant developing his game prototype.

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This year’s GGJ Singapore recorded 133 participants from industry and educational institutions, including RP. 24 games were developed with wider variety and quality compared to the modest attempt of eight games when GGJ Singapore first started in 2010.

All systems go in Singapore The aerospace industry is an important part of Singapore’s economy. It employs about 18,000 workers, averaged about 12% growth over the past two decades and in 2010 generated about $7 billion in output.

Singapore is recognised as Asia’s most comprehensive aerospace MRO hub. The local industry currently accounts for about one quarter of the fast-growing Asian MRO market, and its importance in this field continues to grow.

Today, more than 100 of the industry’s top companies have operations in Singapore. A lot of the activity is centred around Seletar Aerospace Park, a new purpose-built industrial park adjacent to Seletar Airport. The park’s current tenants include leading industry players such as Rolls-Royce, Eurocopter, ST Aerospace, and Jet Aviation.

Singapore also continues to grow as a key international air hub.

Changi Airport handled 46.5 million passengers in 2011, up by 10.7% from 2010. As part of its strategy for accommodating this growth, Changi Airport Group – the airport’s operator – recently announced plans to tear down the existing Budget Terminal and replace it with a new Terminal 4. Once this is operational by 2017, Changi Airport’s four terminals will have a total annual capacity of 80 million passengers.

A growing industry naturally means increased manpower needs as companies seek trained professionals to help them expand their operations. To address this demand, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is playing an active role in boosting the aerospace workforce here following the opening of its Asia campus in Singapore in 2011 to offer aviation-related degree programmes.

Republic Polytechnic (RP) is also doing its part to meet these manpower needs. Besides offering three aerospace-related diploma programmes aimed at training skilled professionals for the industry, RP partners industry players to ensure its training and curriculum are relevant and meet the demands of future employers.

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inFocus

inFocus

Embry-Riddle Aerona utical University

Strong collaborations with industry partners keep Republic Polytechnic at the forefront of aerospace education in Singapore.

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s Singapore’s aerospace industry continues to grow, so does the need for skilled manpower to support the operations of airlines, aviation regulatory authorities, and companies involved in aerospace maintenance and repair.

Republic Polytechnic (RP) is actively involved in addressing this need through education. Specifically, RP School of Engineering offers three aerospace-related diploma programmes: the Diploma in Aerospace Avionics, Diploma in Aerospace Engineering, and Diploma in Civil Aviation.

On 16 February 2012, RP sign ed an the top-ranked institution in the MOU with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), United States for aeronautica l engineering. The MOU creates exciting opportunities for RP and ERAU to collaborate on join t research initiatives and conduc staff exchanges. It also establis t hes articulation pathways ena bling RP graduates to enrol with advanced standing in degree programmes offered by ERAU. Commenting on the MOU, Mr Matthew Flaherty, Director of Marketing & Enrollment Management at ERAU Asia, said , “Embry-Riddle is very happy to be partnering with Republ Polytechnic. Whether it be join ic t research on important aspects of aviation such as green technology, airline/airport opt imisation or composite usage, or simply giving RP graduates an opportunity to receive adv anced standing credit at our cam puses in Singapore or the U.S. Embry-Riddle is proud to be join , ing hands with RP to foster an educational environment in whi both institutions work together ch to enhance the aviation and aero space industry.”

To ensure that these programmes are industry-relevant, RP has forged strong ties with a variety of organisations in the aerospace industry. The nature of these collaborations spans a broad range of activities, including research, training, internships, further education, and career recruitment.

Working hand in hand with industry partners, RP is able to play an important role in producing new professionals for the aerospace industry.

Boeing Shanghai Aviation Services i Aviation On 15 February 2012, RP signed a training agreement with Boeing Shangha Authority Airport i Shangha the Boeing, among venture joint a is which (BSAS), Services y.

Compan Boeing The of supplier MRO d approve and China Eastern Airlines. BSAS is an aircraft avionics Under the agreement, BSAS will provide theory and hands-on training in will enable systems to students in RP’s Diploma in Aerospace Avionics programme. This i Shangha at facility BSAS the at course training a in up to 24 students to participate tion and Pudong International Airport in China. The students will then take an examina be awarded a certificate. directly This programme will provide unique opportunities for the students to learn better from aircraft maintenance engineers in a hangar environment and gain a understanding of the career opportunities in this field.

… Embry-Riddle is proud to be joining hands with RP to foster an educational environment in which both institutions work together to enhance the aviation and aerospace industry.

World Class B O A R D I N G PA S S

– Mr Matthew Flaherty, Director of Marketing & Enrollment Management, ERAU Asia

Eurocopter South East Asia RP and Eurocopter South East Asia (ESEA) – a subsid iary of Eurocopter Group, a global leader in helicopter manufacturing – signed an MOU on 17 February 2012 that aims to develop local talents and strengthen Singapore’s position as an aviation hub.

The agreement encompasses not only internships for RP students, but also the provision of training materials for both teaching staff and students in the field of rotary-wing aircraft education. Under the MOU, stude nts and staff from RP School of Engineering will also have opportunities to partic ipate in tours at ESEA’s facilities at the newly opened Seletar Aerospace Park.

CHANGI AIRPORT GROUP On 8 February 2012, RP and Changi Airpo rt Group (CAG) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to provide a stead y flow of Diploma in Civil Aviation students to participate in internships at CAG’ s Airport Operations division. The aim is to equip students with specialist skills and promote careers in aviation management.

Prior to this MOU, more than 60 RP students had already interned in various CAG departments, where they lent support to the full-time staff in areas such as quality service management, airside operations, and ground operations.

“CAG is a strong believer in the importanc e of developing and grooming future airport professionals,” said Mr Foo Sek Min, Executive Vice President, Airport Management, CAG. RP has the privilege of being the first local polytechnic to sign an MOU with CAG.

Singapore Airlines On 31 January 2012, Singapore Airlines (SIA) was one of the employers that tatives conducted on-campus interviews during RP’s Career Fair 2012. SIA represen re’s Singapo with nities opportu job explore to excited interviewed about 150 students national carrier. participated “The students were eager to find out more about being a cabin crew and the during done were that s interview ent recruitm campus our enthusiastically in , SIA. career fair,” noted Mr Melvyn Lim, Manager of Cabin Crew Division Services The event proved to be a success, with SIA shortlisting over 30 students to further in the recruitment process.

proceed

World Class B O A R D I N G PA S S

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World Class B O A R D I N G PA S S

“This is a win-win cooperation,” noted Dr Bernhard Brenner, President of ESEA. “We recognise the high quality of education provided in Singapore. With a meaningful programme in place, it will serve to motivate these students even more in pursuing a career in aviation, which can only be good for the industry.”

B O A R D I N G PA S S

World Class FROM:

CHANGI AIRPORT GROUP D AT E :

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JetStar Asia Airways me to Since 2010, RP has sent students from the Diploma in Civil Aviation program fully success After me.

Program ce Experien Airline ed specialis participate in Jetstar Asia’s certified as ip internsh an start s student the course, training k five-wee a completing not flying, cabin crew and are placed on the roster to fly with Jetstar. When they are ing, schedul crew as such duties elated the students are tasked with other airline-r . training and ns, operatio operational planning, flight first-hand This unique programme gives RP students a valuable opportunity to gain building up by benefits Asia Jetstar time, same the At . industry experience in the airline ion. graduat upon a pool of qualified candidates to potentially join the airline’s team

World Class B O A R D I N G PA S S

The most important key qualities among all will be their [RP interns’] high energies, enthusiasm and good attitude. They are attentive, learn fast and versatile. They have been an asset to the company during their stay with us.

– Ms Angie Leow, Cabin Crew Manager, Jetstar Asia Airways

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inFocus

inReality

Modern technologies and first-class infrastructure enable RP students to gain a flying start to a career in aerospace.

Graduate Clinches Film Award

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epublic Polytechnic’s (RP) graduate from the School of Technology for the Arts (STA), Zulkifli Zaid, clinched the Best Direction Award for his film “Home” in the Open Category in the recently concluded ciNE65 competition organised by NEXUS.

roviding students with an industry-relevant education involves exposing them to industry-relevant technology.

That is why RP actively upgrades and invests in cuttingedge equipment and facilities.

To ensure that students pursuing aerospace-related studies are familiar with the modern technologies currently used in the industry, RP has invested strategically in its equipment and infrastructure. These include a Jabiru fixed-wing plane, an Airbus-320 flight simulator, and an upcoming hangar facility.

Jabiru J-160 plane At 8.2 metres wide, 6 metres long and weighs only 300 kilograms, the Jabiru J-160 is relatively small as far as planes go, but its arrival at RP in September 2011 was nonetheless a cause for a great deal of excitement. Fully functional, the plane is an important acquisition for RP School of Engineering as it allows students to gain hands-on training in aircraft maintenance.

It can also aid students in gaining a better understanding of topics ranging from aerodynamics and propulsion to aircraft instrument and navigation systems.

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ciNE65 is a short film competition that serves as a platform for Singaporeans to express and embrace the Singapore identity.

Zulkifli’s film “Home” painted a picture of how Singapore is after all the closest home to our hearts.

Upcoming hangar

A320 flight simulator

RP’s aerospace-related diplomas are set to receive a major boost with the development of a new aircraft hangar on campus.

Scheduled to be ready in the fourth quarter of 2012, the hangar will comprise a built-up area of about 1,600 square metres. This can accommodate up to two fixed-wing aircraft, one helicopter, and one microlight aircraft.

The new facility will allow RP to gear up to become an accredited maintenance training organisation with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). For students in RP’s Diploma in Aerospace Engineering programme, this will likely mean that upon graduation, their training time required to become Licensed Aircraft Engineers will be cut by at least six months.

Zulkifli, who graduated from RP in 2010 with a Diploma in New Media, attributed the technical skills he picked up and his foundation in filming to STA’s well-equipped studios and stateof-the-art technology. For one of his final year projects in RP, he was even able to shoot with a Sony XDCAM that uses blu-ray technology, as compared to the more common digital video tapes.

He felt that the problem-solving skills and critical thinking methodologies that he adopted when he was in RP have helped him stand out from the rest.

RP’s STA graduate, Zulkifli Zaid (centre), with the Best Direction Award.

“Anyone can learn to operate a camera, hook up a microphone or set up the lightings on a film set but not everyone can be a problem-solver and RP has taught me that,” said Zulkifli.

“Republic Polytechnic’s School of Engineering is dedicated to grooming future professionals for the aerospace industry. The collaborations we have forged with major industry players and the new facilities we have invested in will all come together to produce competent aerospace professionals,” said Dr Wang Jianguo, Director of RP School of Engineering.

Zulkifli will be graduating from Chapman University Singapore with a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Producing coming May 2012, and he is looking at securing an internship in the United States.

Besides filming, Zulkifli has embarked on conceptualising a mobile application and is currently getting the prototype done up by an independent developer.

With all in place, RP is ready to take flight with the booming aerospace industry.

He is also in the midst of discussing the possibility of creating a horror web series with another financier. He said, “My interest lies in new media and I definitely hope to land a job as an Online Producer in the future!”

A still shot captured from Zulkifli’s film “Home” that clinched the Best Direction Award in the ciNE65 competition.

Jabiru J-160

Airbus-320 flight simulator RP’s Airbus-320 (A320) flight simulator provides students in aerospace-related programmes a realistic peek at what pilots see when they step into the cockpit of an A320 aircraft. In addition to simulating various flight conditions, the simulator allows students to experience the functionality and displays of the various systems used on this aircraft.

Specifically, students use the simulator to gain an appreciation for the various operating systems on an A320 plane, such as the flight control systems and electrical and navigational systems.

In addition, students can develop a better understanding of the role of an aircraft maintenance engineer by going through the engine start-up procedure and various ground checks essential for confirming the functionality of crucial systems.

Artist’s impressions of the hangar

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inNovation

inConversation

Strong Boost to R&D Chikungunya Four innovative projects in Republic Polytechnic or Dengue?

(RP) received more than $1. 4 million in project funding from the Ministry of Education’s Translational and R&D Innovation Fund.

Outdoor Hot-Spot Remediation (Led by Dr Wong Luh Cherng, RP School of Applied Science)

Outdoor ‘hot-spots’ are created by the radiant heat from sunny walls especially where there is air flow stagnation. This project aims to remediate the hot-spots by using a solar-activated outdoor cooler. The multiple-panel cooler unit will also be able to function as an advertisement panel.

Content Management System for Digital Media Censorship and Classification (Led by David Leong, RP School of Infocomm)

The concern about the negative influence media exerts on children and adolescents is on the rise. However, current technology such as Internet filters and parental lock systems have limited capabilities to block undesirable content. This project involves the development of an innovative software capable of liberalising censorship of digital media by allowing content providers, service providers, and home users to censor, rate, and classify digital media stored in local computer systems, remote video servers, or the Internet.

Wearable Thermoelectric Cooler (Led by Dr S.E Valavan, RP School of Applied Science)

The key objective of this project is to develop a flexible and wearable thermoelectric cooling module that will reduce body surface temperature, and that can be integrated into existing sportswear to provide more comfortable garments for use in extreme weather conditions and environments. The product will be a lightweight, affordable, and efficient cooling system which will help to reduce heat stroke and also improve outdoor performance for sportsmen.

Republic Polytechnic’s (RP) School of Applied Science has developed a test kit to detect and distinguish between Chikungunya and all dengue serotypes.

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ne of the biggest challenges for health authorities and infectious disease clinicians is the early diagnostic detection and differentiation of the types of mosquitoborne viruses in human patients. In Singapore, the two common mosquito-borne viruses – dengue and chikungunya – can cause very similar early symptoms in patients. Therefore, differentiating these two viruses is almost impossible without performing a diagnostic analysis. The problem is made worse by dengue having four different forms or serotypes.

As such, RP in collaboration with the National University of Singapore (NUS) researched on a test kit to speed up the detection of dengue and chikungunya viral infections. The kit is used for diagnostic purposes, allowing rapid detection of both infections by adding a minute amount of patient’s sample.

incoRPorate welcomes the new Director of Office of Technology Development Fong Yew Chan, who loves technology and wears a double hat as the Director of School of Infocomm in Republic Polytechnic (RP).

forward. The proliferation of mobile applications will continue to grow and certainly become a dominant feature in our daily life. Therefore, the new diploma will train and equip students, and enable them to ride the waves of mobile computing when they graduate.

Q: You are wearing two hats as Head of Department for OTD

& SOI. How do you juggle your time?

A: I do exactly what a professional juggler will do. (Laughter)

But seriously, my workload has literally doubled. Now I have to be very efficient and do things in double quick time. Work that does not need my specific attention, I will delegate to my deputies. I am thankful that I have great and talented people in both SOI and OTD, and that helps!

I begin to enjoy the quick pace in my work. Time flies, and my mental activity is always at its peak, and that I believe is a great preventive measure against dementia!

Q: Congratulations on your new appointment! What are some

of your goals you have envisioned to achieve with Office of Technology Development (OTD)?

A: Thank you! Yes I am indeed very happy to be appointed as

the Director of OTD. I am grateful that the management has confidence in me to bring OTD to the next level.

My first and foremost responsibility is to bring RP to a level at which we can effectively engage the industry in innovation and technology development. For this to happen, it would involve having a mindset change – staff members must see capability development as part and parcel of their work. It will be an exciting journey as we position RP to be recognised as the leader in certain industry sectors and develop peaks of excellence in these capabilities.

Q: You had spent a number of years

in France. Can you speak French?

A: Eh oui! J’ai fait mes études

d’ingénieur en France. Il y a bien longtemps.

(Translation: Oh yes! I studied engineering in France. Well, it was a long time ago.)

I went to France to pursue my engineering studies. I spent one year to study the language, two years to complete my class préparatoires, and another three years of engineering at the grande école. I had to be proficient in French both written and spoken, as everything was taught in French, be it the lectures, tutorials, exams, etc.

When I returned to Singapore, I had difficulty speaking English. Now, the reverse is true.

Q: What role does OTD play in terms of research &

development (R&D) in RP?

With a rapid one-step reaction protocol, the test kit is also capable of differentiating between the four serotypes of dengue viruses. This identification allows proper treatment to be administered faster, thus increasing the recovery rate of the patients.

A: I feel that OTD plays the role of an enabler in RP, and we are

Led by Dr Ho Phui San from RP School of Applied Science, the test kit is currently in the development phase. Plans are being made to commercialise the kit.

Q: The School of Infocomm (SOI) has recently gotten its new

here to assist and guide staff members who desire to pursue R&D in synergy with the academic responsibilities that they have. We can carve out a niche in which staff can embark on their R&D pursuits with as little impediments as possible.

name (formerly known as School of Information and Communications Technology). Why the change?

A: When I first took over the helm of the School, I felt a little

awkward with the name. It was long and a kind of ‘dated’ name.

I wanted a simpler name, and a name that will resonate to the students and yet be recognised by the industry.

Q: Share with us the new diploma SOI has just launched.

A: This year, we launched our sixth diploma, the Diploma in

Mobile Software Development, a programme in the area of mobile applications.

All-solid-state Lithium Ion Thin Film Microbattery for Smart Card Applications

In the last two years, mobile computing has taken a great leap

About Fong Yew Chan

(Led by Dr Wang Yihua, RP School of Engineering)

In this project, all-solid-state lithium ion thin film microbatteries will be developed to meet the emerging demand for low power devices such as self-powered smart cards. This project will produce an environmentallyfriendly thin film microbattery with improved stability and safety for low-cost applications in smart cards.

BONJOUR!

A Public Service Commission (PSC) scholar, Yew Chan graduated from the French Grande École – École Nationale Supérieure d’Ingénieurs Electriciens de Grenoble with a Diplôme d’Ingénieur and subsequently received his postgraduate degree, Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies, from the École Centrale de Lyon and the Institut National Polytechnique de Grenoble.

Dr Ho Phui San (L) and Technology Development Assistant (R) Lynnette Tham working on the test kit.

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Yew Chan held various positions in both private and public organisations such as DSO National Labs, Agilis Communications Technologies, National Science and Technology Board, A*STAR’s Institute of High Performance Computing before joining RP in 2002 and became the founding director of RP School of Engineering.

In 2008, Yew Chan was awarded the Public Administration Medal (Silver) for his contributions to public service.

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inProfile

The Transforming Educator incoRPorate catches up with Dr S.E Valavan, TDC (Technology Development Centre) Manager for New Materials in Republic Polytechnic (RP), whose calling is to teach, share, and innovate!

Q: Hi Dr Valavan, what is your role in RP School of Applied

years from 2008 to 2010. For this, I was awarded thrice the Outstanding Mentor Award from MOE.

Science?

A: Besides being the TDC Manager, I am also the Manager

for RP-NTU Advanced Materials Processing Laboratory.

My primary role is to promote materials research and development in RP, train staff and students in cutting-edge technologies, and prepare them with skills relevant to Singapore’s manufacturing industry.

Award from MOE for three years, what is your secret recipe?

A: I strive to understand the needs of the “21st century students”

and work on transforming the traditional teacher-centred learning approach to student-centric learning. It is my passion to share my experience and nurture scientific thinking in young minds as well!

In addition, I also help in the development of curriculum, facilitation, laboratory infrastructure, industry attachments, and school outreach for the Diploma in Materials Science.

Q: Share with us your latest research project.

A: The project I am working on now aims to develop a wearable

and flexible thermoelectric cooler suitable for integration into existing sportswear for use in extreme weather conditions and environments, thereby improving outdoor performance and reducing heat stroke.

Q: Congratulations! Having won the Outstanding Mentor

We have just received project funding from the Ministry of Education’s Translational and R&D Innovation Fund and are looking into commercialisation opportunities.

Q: What do you think makes a good educator?

A: A good educator must be able to understand the students,

listen to them, teach them to think out of the box and ignite their passion to learn and innovate!

Q: How has RP helped you in your professional development?

A: As a trained researcher with a passion to teach, share, and

innovate, RP has provided all the infrastructure, training, flexibility, and guidance for me to excel in my research work while sharing my experience with young minds through problem-crafting and facilitation. Therefore, I can proudly say that I have been transforming in the last six years!

Q: What is the Science Mentorship Programme that you are

involved in?

A: The Science Mentorship Programme organised by Ministry

of Education (MOE) offers secondary school students an opportunity to conduct scientific research under the close guidance of researchers from tertiary institutions.

Q: What do you do during your free time?

A: My mind always asks “what is next?” and how best I should

I was involved in the programme since 2008, and have helped the students from NUS High School and Raffles Girls’ School win the 3M Young Investigator Award consecutively for three

invest my time in educating or nurturing students while excelling in my research work. If time permits, I would like to spend more time with my family.

About Dr S.E Valavan

Dr S.E Valavan (Santhiagu Ezhilvalavan) received his Doctorate in Philosophy in Materials Science from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India. Prior to joining RP, he was working as a Senior Research Scientist in the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN), Singapore from 2003 to 2006.

To date, he has secured about $4.5 million funding for RP through TOTE Board, MOE, National Research Foundation, and defence companies. He has published about 50 technical papers in peer-reviewed journals and conferences, and filed four patents.

He is currently a reviewer for materials science and applied physics journals and a member of the Materials Research Society of Singapore.

Dr Valavan (R) with his mentees from Raffles Girls’ School.

Partnering Republic Polytechnic RP seeks to work with the industry in the following areas: • • •

Republic Polytechnic (RP) has over 14,000 students and 900 staff, with six schools and two centres offering 39 courses in Infocomm Technology, Engineering, Applied Science, Technology for the Arts, Sports, Health & Leisure, Hospitality, Communication, and Consumer Research.

The first educational institution in Singapore to leverage Problem-Based Learning approach, RP is committed to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurial learning in an environment that develops problem-solving process skills and a lifelong learning attitude. RP’s academic staff come with years of industry and research experience that enhances the students’ learning in practicality and depth.

• • • •

Internship Programmes Employment Services (Career Fair, Career Talk) Giving to RP (Scholarships, Endowment, Book Prize Awards) Research & Development Projects Innovation Voucher Scheme Corporate Training Other Forms of Collaboration

Discover how RP can help meet your organisation’s needs in talent management and planning, corporate philanthropy, research and consultancy projects.

To know more, please contact one-stop@rp.edu.sg More information can also be found at www.rp.edu.sg/industrycollaboration

RP’s mandate is to nurture skilled manpower for the economy. While RP develops industry-ready and lifeready graduates through industry-focused curriculum, synergistic partnership with the industry is also instrumental in nurturing innovation, entrepreneurial learning, professional and technical competency among the staff and student community.

inAdvance Republic Polytechnic looks forward to your participation in the upcoming events.

For enquiries, please email one-stop@rp.edu.sg YEAR 2012 11 – 13 Apr 8 May 15 – 18 May 21 – 26 May

RP Freshmen Orientation Programme National Geographic Photographers’ Award RP Graduation Ceremony Momentum Dance Festival (by The Republic Cultural Centre)