DNV has renewed its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) continuing the joint collaboration in maritime education, applied research, and innovation.
The updated agreement builds on a 2022 framework, with an expanded focus on decarbonisation, digitalisation, and talent development to support Singapore’s maritime ambitions.
Under the MoU, DNV will contribute domain expertise in maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation to support SIT’s naval architecture and marine engineering joint degree programme, and work with SIT to co-develop postgraduate programmes that align with industry needs. SIT will leverage DNV’s open simulation platform, the simulation trust centre (STC), to support applied research and education in optimising ship and system design for energy management, operational efficiency, and autonomous operations. In addition, the collaboration will extend to integrated work-study attachments, capstone projects, and the promotion of industrial doctorate and master pathways to upskill maritime professionals. DNV experts may be appointed as adjunct or joint professors at SIT.
Bernard Nee, SIT Deputy President (Industry and Community), said: “Our renewed partnership with DNV underscores our mutual dedication to driving maritime innovation and sustainability through robust industry-academia collaboration. By harnessing DNV’s extensive expertise and global insights, we aim to develop impactful solutions in maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, and autonomous systems. This collaboration also allows SIT to enhance our applied learning approach, nurture talent through practical exposure, and fortify the ecosystem for lifelong learning, thereby contributing to Singapore’s ambition of becoming a leading global maritime hub.”
Antony M Dsouza, DNV Maritime Regional President and Director, Southeast Asia, Pacific and India, added: “As Singapore accelerates its drive to become a global maritime hub, building competence across the industry will be essential. This renewed collaboration with SIT brings together DNV’s technical leadership and STI’s academic strengths to support the development of professionals equipped to contribute to a more efficient and resilient maritime sector.”
Both parties will work alongside industry partners on applied R&D initiatives, under the sustainable maritime engineering strategic translational research programme. Key focus areas include zero-emission and autonomous ships, shore-based remote control and simulation systems, and upstream maritime infrastructure, including shore charging and future fuels.
In collaboration with the Singapore Maritime Foundation, DNV and SIT will further advance competency-based education, ensuring graduates are equipped with the practical, real-world skills needed to meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector.
Image: MoU signing between DNV and SIT (source: DNV)
