At the inaugural SMU Academy Day 2025, themed “The Upskilling Imperative: Bold Moves to Transform Your Talent,” SMU Academy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the five Polytechnics, and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE). The collaboration strengthens Singapore’s lifelong learning ecosystem by expanding credit recognition and creating new progression pathways for adult learners.
Under the agreement, Polytechnic post-diploma holders will receive credit exemptions towards SMU Academy’s Industry Graduate Diploma (IGD) and Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) programmes. For the first time, ITE diploma graduates will have a direct pathway to pursue graduate-level qualifications with SMU Academy.
The partnership marks Singapore’s first inter-IHL initiative to formalise the recognition of prior learning and experience. By reducing duplication and accelerating learning pathways, the MOU supports a more inclusive and efficient upskilling journey for working adults.
Professor Lily Kong, President of Singapore Management University, said:
“In a world of constant change, institutions must collaborate deeply to create seamless pathways for lifelong learning. This MOU reflects our collective commitment to recognise the expertise that learners already possess and to make education more relevant and accessible.”
Mr Jack Lim, Executive Director of SMU Academy, added:
“This collaboration is a game-changer for adult learners. By partnering with the Polytechnics and ITE, we are opening flexible routes for learners to fast-track their professional growth and achieve graduate-level qualifications with SMU Academy.”
More details about the press release can be found here.
