As technology continues to shape our world, it is imperative that Singapore remains at the forefront of digital innovation. The Smart Nation Scholarship (SNS), jointly offered by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), Government Technology Agency (GovTech), and Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), aims to identify and develop emerging talents dedicated to creating transformative digital solutions for the nation.

Silas Yeo Shuen Yu from CSA, Kevin Foong Wei Tong from GovTech, and Tan Jia Min from IMDA are among the distinguished recipients of the SNS. While they have yet to enter the workforce, they are looking ahead to carve their respective paths, all while striving to further Singapore’s transformation into a Smart Nation where people are more empowered to live meaningful and fulfilled lives, enabled seamlessly by tech, offering exciting opportunities for all.

We sat down with them to learn more about the opportunities they have gained through the SNS and their promising careers ahead.

What motivated you to pursue your careers at your respective agencies?

Silas: My interest in cybersecurity began in secondary school, where I participated in several Capture-the-Flag (CTF) competitions. These events, with their wide variety of challenges, not only stimulated the puzzle-solving and competitive side of me but also provided exposure to the breadth and depth of the field.

During my National Service, I was able to explore this interest further as a cybersecurity operator in MHA’s Security Operations Centre. What began as a simple hobby transformed into meaningful work, as I could see my skills and interest being put to use in defending Singapore’s cyberspace.

Kevin: GovTech provides the unique opportunity to tackle and solve challenging problems focused on public good. I chose to pursue a career in GovTech as I am greatly inspired to utilise my technical skills to solve issues that bring value to the lives of all Singaporeans, including the underserved.

One of GovTech’s products that left a lasting impression on me was the eCanvas, which aims to help those with cerebral palsy to paint more independently. This experience highlighted GovTech’s unique value as a tech organisation that aims to identify issues faced by Singaporeans, including those that may not be commercially viable, and implement solutions to improve the lives of citizens.

GovTech also provides a strong career progression path with ample developmental opportunities. I am excited to continuously grow to enhance my capabilities and contribute positively to the public good.

Jia Min: My previous exposure to IMDA’s past initiatives, such as my involvement in launching IDA Labs @ Jurong Regional Library and my internship at a startup in IMDA’s PIXEL building, provided me with valuable insights into the agency’s impactful work. I was inspired by how technology and digitalisation can drive societal progress and economic growth, which aligns well with my studies in computer science and economics. These experiences have motivated me to pursue a career at IMDA, where I can contribute meaningfully to Singapore’s digital future.

What made you apply for the SNS, Silas?

It certainly started with a strong alignment of my personal interests and what the scholarship had to offer. My passion coupled with the experience I garnered during National Service made me inclined to pursue a career in this field, and at first glance, the Smart Nation Scholarship would have provided an exciting pathway for such a pursuit.

As I researched more about the scholarship, I also found myself resonating with its mission and the benefits it provided. The development programme in particular, seemed like a great way to quickly acquire essential skills and experience in the field, helping me explore the best fit for me. This made me more resolute in applying for the scholarship.

Kevin and Jia Min, how have you benefitted from the scholarship?

Kevin: I received financial support, covering university fees, living allowance and a learning budget for taking up technical courses and examinations. I also benefitted from career upport and guidance provided by assigned mentors from GovTech. I am particularly thankful for a very supportive and open mentor who shares career, technical and personal advice.

GovTech’s Young Talent team has consistently shown support, regularly checking in with us. Additionally, the scholarship programme encourages further mentorship and networking opportunities within the company, allowing us to explore various fields such as solution architecture and User Interface/User Experience (UI/UX).

Jia Min: The scholarship provided financial support, enabling me to participate in an overseas exchange programme at Georgia Tech in the United States. This experience broadened my world view and enriched my academic experience. Additionally, it offered valuable internship opportunities within IMDA that allowed me to witness first-hand how IMDA is actively working with the industry to support our local tech ecosystem, and I was able to gain more insights into life in the public sector. The scholarship also connected me with a senior mentor who has guided me through academic and career-related questions.

What aspect of your agency’s work holds the most meaning for you?

Silas: CSA is always at the forefront of cybersecurity, addressing both local and international incidents and developments. Working at CSA means dealing with real-world cybersecurity situations and devising practical and impactful solutions that benefit all sectors of society.

The dynamic nature of the cybersecurity field ensures that work is never stagnant, with new challenges arising daily. Our work not only safeguards Singapore from emerging threats but also positions us as a technological leader on the global stage.

Kevin: GovTech tackles challenges that promote public good and ensures Singapore stays competitive in the global landscape. For example, products like GoBusiness simplifies businesses’ digital interactions with the government, offering seamless access to licence applications and a wealth of government information and services. Singpass also provides convenient and secure identity verification, easing everyday transactions for Singaporeans and enhancing operational efficiency for businesses.

GovTech aims to leave no one behind, ensuring inclusivity in ensuring accessibility for all, including marginalised populations. I believe working at GovTech provides a great opportunity to contribute to Singapore’s development and progress through technology, ensuring competitiveness and benefit for all citizens.

Jia Min: What I find most meaningful about the work of IMDA is its commitment to leveraging technology to empower a wide range of businesses and individuals. Initiatives like Hawkers Go Digital and Chief Technology Officer-as-a-Service exemplify IMDA’s commitment to driving digital transformation and fostering a thriving digital economy.

IMDA’s proactive approach in identifying and adopting emerging technologies ensures continuous innovation to benefit both businesses and individuals, contributing to the overall advancement of a digital society.

That’s insightful! Silas, tell us about what you hope to achieve through your upcoming career at CSA.

I wish to further my interest in cybersecurity, particularly within the Cybersecurity Engineering Centre, which takes a hands-on approach towards developing tools and services that can enhance cybersecurity and benefit the community. I also look forward to ample opportunities to upgrade my skills, both technical and soft, by collaborating with like-minded colleagues and attending workshops as well as certification courses.

Ultimately, I believe what underpins a successful career is marked by the tangible impact of one’s work at CSA. I would love to see my projects contributing to protecting the people around me, whether through making apps safer to use or designing frameworks that foster a safer cyberspace.

What possibilities are there for those at GovTech and IMDA?

Kevin: Being a large organisation, GovTech provides many career paths in various technical specialisations. From software engineering, DevOps, solutions architecture, product management, UI/UX, and data science, there are ample opportunities to develop interdisciplinary skills while working in GovTech and pursue a specialisation that aligns most with one’s interests.

Jia Min: IMDA offers a variety of opportunities across different teams, each with unique work scopes. I’ve had the chance to intern with IMDA twice in different departments. In the Human Capital Cluster, I researched the practical applications of Quantum Computing, focusing on preparing the Singaporean workforce for the quantum future. Currently, as an AI Engineering intern with the BizTech Group, I focus on improving data quality as well as benchmarking large language models. With IMDA’s broad range of initiatives, there are opportunities to suit anyone who is keen on working here.