On 5th July 2024, StarHub and National University of Singapore (NUS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate and build Singapore’s first “Borderless University”, which will leverage on ultra-fast, uninterrupted and borderless connectivity, through the deployment of state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, to further elevate NUS aspirations in education, research and innovation.
“Borderless University”
The “Borderless University” initiative is powered by Infinite Technology, they are driven by StarHub’s Enterprise 5G and their multi-cloud solution, Cloud Infinity.
This is a joint initiative between StarHub and NUS Information Technology (NUS IT), they aim to enhance NUS students’ learning experience by harnessing Enterprise 5G technology for teaching and research. This partnership will also facilitate the exchange of expertise, industry knowledge, and valuable insights, that benefits both parties.
Users that leverage on Enterprise 5G can experience ultra-fast, low-latency connections that support applications such as virtual and augmented reality, and real-time data analytics. The backbone of the “Borderless University” initiative is a private dedicated data network set up by StarHub for NUS.
StarHub eSIM
With eSIM technology, users can connect directly to NUS’s private 5G network, and they can access NUS digital assets and the internet instantly without repeated logins required by Wi-Fi. This robust connectivity remains lag-free even with multiple users, extending the learning environment beyond physical boundaries and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for staff and students throughout Singapore.
The introduction of eSIM also enhances the efficiency of the onboarding process for new users at NUS through the elimination on the need for physical SIM card deployment, and the activation process will be streamlined. NUS students and staff can register and activate their eSIM with a simple QR code scan to get connected instantly.
This collaboration brings multiple benefits, including:
- Borderless University: Uninterrupted connectivity for NUS students and staff throughout Singapore, fostering a truly mobile and adaptable learning environment.
- Secured Borderless Access: Secure network segmentation based on user profiles through a private dedicated 5G network.
- Data Analytics and AI: Intelligent data collected from the eSIMs could facilitate data-driven decisions for NUS to pursue potential innovations in areas such as sustainable campus operations and experience optimisation.
- Global Network Extension: NUS students and staff traveling abroad could experience consistent and seamless network connectivity (subject to partner network capabilities).
The StarHub and NUS MOU was signed at NUS by Tan Shui-Min, NUS Chief Information Technology Officer and Tan Kit Yong, Head, Enterprise Business Group, StarHub.
“In line with our DARE+ initiative, the partnership with NUS will not only enhance the learning environment for NUS staff and students, but also set a benchmark for the future of education and offer valuable learnings for other industry applications,” said Tan Kit Yong, Head of Enterprise Business Group, StarHub. “StarHub’s Enterprise 5G technology holds immense potential to transform higher education by enabling unprecedented levels of connectivity and innovation.”
Tan Shui-Min, Chief Information Technology Officer of NUS said, “This collaboration with StarHub aligns with our vision for a future-oriented learning environment. Both staff and students will benefit from seamless access to NUS’ resources and the Internet, wherever they are in Singapore; and in the future, overseas, without the need for VPN or other remote access technologies. Over time we believe that the integration of 5G technology will empower educators to deliver more interactive and personalised learning experiences, such as virtual labs and augmented reality simulations. This innovation in borderless connectivity will reshape our NUS campus network, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution that reduces our carbon footprint.”
StarHub x NUS Collaborations
StarHub and NUS have collaborated on pioneering initiatives in smart campus and connectivity technology innovation since 2022.
These initiatives include the successful rollout of a first-in-class outdoor Wi-Fi network and Wi-Fi on the Move Solution that is powered by StarHub’s Enterprise 5G. This enhanced connectivity seamlessly complements NUS existing indoor network, fostering a reliable and uninterrupted experience for students and staff across the campus.
* Information courtesy of StarHub and AKA Asia *