Singapore, August – The inaugural Singapore Digital Literacy Day (SDLD) 2025, organised by ICDL Asia and hosted by Singapore Polytechnic, concluded successfully after three impactful days of conferences, hands-on workshops, and immersive learning experiences that empowered both students and educators with essential digital and STEM-related skills.
Held from 30 July to 1 August at Singapore Polytechnic, the event was supported by Enterprise Ireland and Siemens, bringing together students, educators, and industry experts to foster stronger collaboration between the education sector and technology-driven industries, while igniting greater interest in STEM careers.
With the theme “Nurturing Future Digital Talent and Technology Leaders”, SDLD 2025 served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations in digital learning and reinforcing the critical role of future-ready digital competencies in shaping the future workforce.
Throughout the three-day programme, SDLD 2025 offered a diverse range of interactive workshops, expert sharing sessions, and hands-on learning activities, designed to deepen participants’ understanding of emerging technologies and their real-world applications. These activities not only sparked interest in STEM careers but also introduced participants to the internationally recognised ICDL digital skills certification, reinforcing the importance of digital proficiency and a solid foundation for navigating the future workforce.
Day 1: Immersive STEM Learning Journeys
Day One of SDLD 2025 began with an exciting array of immersive learning journeys that captivated participants with cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions solving real-world problems.
One of the key highlights was the Electric Vehicle (EV) Learning Journey, where students and educators delved into the details of EV technology, comparing the differences between EVs with traditional combustion engine vehicles, closely examining the exposed components and circuitry of a real EV. The trainer provided clarity on the complexities of EV charging, covering various industry standards and charging methods, and concluded with a live demonstration of the EV charging process—offering attendees a hands-on experience of the technology driving the future of transportation.
Following this, participants engaged in the Digitalisation Learning Journey, where they gained valuable insights into the core aspects of modern digital transformation. The session began with foundational concepts and progressed to practical applications, including the integration of MCAD-ECAD systems and the use of simulation for virtual product testing. Learners explored how digitalisation is revolutionising manufacturing, cloud services, and data management. The session concluded with an interactive educational quiz that reinforced the concepts covered in a fun and engaging way.
Another major highlight of the day was the 5G & AIoT Learning Journey, which immersed participants in the transformative world of 5G connectivity, Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT), and Smart Facilities. This session highlighted how these technologies are reshaping urban infrastructure, industrial operations, and the development of smart cities. Participants gained real-world insights into the applications of these groundbreaking innovations, understanding how technological advancements are shaping the future and creating positive changes in our daily lives. The experience provided attendees with valuable knowledge on how digital skills and technology equip them for the future of digital transformation.
Day 2: Engineering Focused Drone Technology Workshop and Drone Soccer Competition
Day two featured a hands-on, engineering-focused workshop that introduced students to the exciting world of drone technology, blending theory and practical flying skills that culminated in a fun-filled Drone Soccer competition.
The session begins with essential flight principles, covering aerodynamics, safety protocols, and remote-control operation. Students learned about the various types of drones and their real-world applications in industries such as agriculture and aviation engineering. Using PC-based flight simulators, students first hone their skills in a risk-free virtual environment, mastering control, stabilisation, and precision manoeuvring.
During the session, participants also had the opportunity to visit Singapore Polytechnic’s AeroHub, a specialised facility that brings together a range of aviation-related resources under one roof. Equipped with features typically found in an industrial aircraft hangar, including actual models of helicopters, jets, and aircraft. This offers students a closer look at the fundamentals of aviation engineering. For many, the visit was a real eye-opener, providing valuable insights into aerospace technology and the diverse range of career opportunities within the industry.
The excitement peaks in the afternoon with a high-energy Drone Soccer match! Participants take control of programmable drones, putting their skills to the test as they execute sharp turns and score goals by flying their drones through hoops positioned at each end of the field. The fast-paced competition reinforces spatial awareness, teamwork, and quick decision-making—all crucial skills in real-world drone operations.
The workshop concludes with a debrief and awards ceremony, celebrating students’ progress and newfound interest in this cutting-edge field. Students who successfully complete the engineering-focused Drone Workshop and pass all required competency tests are also awarded the Certificate of Completion, recognising their achievement and the skills they have acquired. This experience delivers hands-on learning, industry insights, and engaging fun all in one day!
Day 3: Singapore Digital Literacy Day Main Conference
The third day of the Singapore Digital Literacy Day (SDLD) 2025 featured the main conference, which began with an opening ceremony attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Robert Kiely, Senior Market Advisor of Enterprise Ireland, Dr. Lim Joo Ghee, Director of the School of Electrical & Electronics Engineering at Singapore Polytechnic, and Mr. Damien O’Sullivan, CEO of the ICDL Foundation, and Ms. Tina wu, CEO of ICDL Asia. The conference also saw the participation of industry experts, civil servants, academic leaders, training providers, and students from both local and overseas institutions.
Ms. Tina Wu, CEO of ICDL Asia, warmly welcomed the attendees with an invigorating opening address, expressing her sincere gratitude to all the partners for their invaluable support and collaboration.
Dr. Lim Joo Ghee, Director of the School of Electrical & Electronics Engineering of Singapore Polytechnic, delivered his welcoming address to welcome delegates to Singapore Polytechnic and emphasised the institution’s commitment to nurturing talent in STEM and digital fields.
During the session, Mr. Robert Kiely, Senior Market Advisor of Enterprise Ireland, delivered a Special Address, emphasising the shared commitment of both Ireland and Singapore to quality education and digital skills, which has driven economic success and attracted global companies, fostering valuable partnerships across Asia. He highlighted the pivotal role of ICDL commitment in promoting digital literacy, developing STEM talent, and its continuous commitment to supporting digital skills development across regions.
Mr. Damien O’Sullivan, CEO of the ICDL Foundation, delivered the keynote speech. He discussed the challenges and opportunities in the age of rapidly developing Artificial Intelligence (AI), stressing the importance of equipping students and workers with digital skills to remain relevant. He also pledged ICDL support for promoting digital transformation.
Future of Tech: Key Insights from Industry Leaders
The Tech Industry Insights sharing session brought together industry experts from academia and the engineering sector to shed light on emerging technology trends and the evolving digital skills landscape. The session aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of how digital transformation plays an indispensable role in the workplace and everyday life.
Mr. Rick Chua, Senior Lecturer at Singapore Polytechnic, kicked off the session with his presentation titled Harnessing Digital Twin for Development. He introduced participants to the transformative capabilities of Digital Twin technology, highlighting its applications across industries. Mr. Chua also showcased how Singapore Polytechnic is leveraging such advanced technologies to enhance students’ digital competencies and prepare them for the demands of the workforce.
This was followed by a joint presentation on Industry Trends and Digitalisation by Mr. Sean Seneviratne, Regional Technical Manager, and Ms. Florence Lim, Head of HR, SEA & ANZ, from Siemens Digital Industries Software. They shared valuable insights into digital transformation within the manufacturing sector, especially the growing integration of AI. The speakers also illustrated how Siemens supports employee development through comprehensive digital skills training and targeted learning programmes to foster a culture of innovation.
Dr. Stephen Yee, Assistant Chief Executive of the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), concluded the sharing session by underscoring the importance of digital skills from an employer’s perspective. In his presentation, he emphasised that digital proficiency has become one of the most sought-after competencies in the talent market and is key to enhancing workforce competitiveness.
The Tech Industry Insights Sharing session offered participants a holistic perspective on how digital trends are reshaping education, business, and employment—reinforcing ICDL’s mission to equip individuals with the digital skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Celebrating Singapore’s Tertiary-Level Digital Talent
The Singapore Digital Literacy Day 2025 also featured an award ceremony honouring the winners of the ICDL Asia Digital Challenge 2025 Singapore National Round. These outstanding tertiary students were recognised for their achievements across the fields of business, design, and emerging technologies.
The awards were jointly presented by Mr. Damien O’Sullivan, CEO of the ICDL Foundation, and Ms. Tina Wu, CEO of ICDL Asia. The ceremony celebrated top-performing students who demonstrated exceptional digital competencies, with the national champions earning the prestigious opportunity to represent Singapore at the regional finals of the competition in the Asia-Pacific.
Digital Challenge 2025 Singapore National Round Tertiary Level Award Winners
Business Track
Gold award: Choo Qi Siang, Temasek Polytechnic.
Silver award: Mindy Chan Jean Teng, Singapore Institute of Management (SIM)
Bronze Award: Tang Shuo, Temasek Polytechnic.
Design Track
Gold award: Lim Wei Kang, Singapore Polytechnic.
Silver award: Tan Zeng Boon, Singapore Polytechnic.
Bronze award: Seah Zheng Xian Noel, Singapore Polytechnic.
Emerging Technologies Track
Gold award: Tan Jie Qi, Singapore Institute of Management.
Silver award: Chng Cheng Jun Ernest, Temasek Polytechnic
Bronze award: Ashton Ang, Temasek Polytechnic and
Bronze award: Tan Shi Yi, Singapore Institute of Management (SIM)
Pathway to Learn Engineering Conducted by SIEMENS
Another important highlight of Singapore Digital Literacy Day 2025 was the session titled ‘Pathway to Learn Engineering,’ led by Mr. Alvin Tan Kian Guan, Director of Business Development and Academic Program for Asia Pacific at Mainstream Engineering, Siemens Digital Industries Software.
Mr. Tan shared valuable insights into the real-world applications of cutting-edge technologies at Siemens, while identifying the key competencies needed in today’s digital economy. The session also featured two Singapore Polytechnic student interns at Siemens, Mr. Akhilesh Sreenivas and Ms. Kannan Huthiga Shri, who demonstrated the user-friendly interface of the PLE course, showcasing how digital learning tools can support a smooth transition from education to workplace applications.
In conclusion, Singapore Digital Literacy Day 2025 served as a crucial platform that brought together industry partners, students, and educators under a shared vision: to harness the power of technology to unlock opportunities, empower individuals, and adapt to the rapid evolution of AI. Technology is more than just a tool—it is a gateway to progress, driving collective success and growth. At ICDL Asia, we believe that digital literacy forms the cornerstone of a future-ready, digitally driven workforce. As technological advancements continue to reshape the world, digital skills are no longer optional but essential for staying relevant and competitive. By integrating digital literacy into education, we can close the digital divide, create equitable opportunities, and foster the next generation of digital talent and technology leaders.
