Canon Singapore has announced a significant partnership with Temasek Polytechnic to elevate professional development in Singapore’s security industry. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on 20 November at the Security Industry Conference 2024, with Ms. Sun Xueling, Minister of State for the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Social and Family Development, as the guest witness.
The partnership will create the Security Technology Experience Centre (STEC), an advanced training facility located at Temasek Polytechnic, set to open by Q3 2025. This initiative aims to prepare both current and future security professionals for the challenges of an evolving industry by offering immersive, technology-driven learning experiences.
Strengthening Singapore’s security workforce
The global demand for security services is steadily increasing, with the Asia-Pacific market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% between 2023 and 2030. Recognising this, Canon Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic aim to provide a premier learning environment that supports knowledge transfer, promotes innovative solutions, and bolsters Singapore’s security workforce.
The STEC will be accessible to both local and international visitors, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas. “This strategic partnership aligns perfectly with Canon’s vision of creating a smarter, safer future for communities and businesses with the power of Smart Surveillance,” said Mr. Norihiro Katagiri, Senior Vice President of Canon Singapore.
He further added, “By collaborating with a leading institution like Temasek Polytechnic, we aim to address the skill gaps in the fast-evolving security industry while contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce capable of leveraging advanced technologies.”
Training programmes for mid-career professionals
The MOU includes plans for specialised training programmes targeting mid-career security professionals under Temasek Polytechnic’s Continuing Education and Training (CET) initiatives. This collaboration will address skill gaps and provide upskilling opportunities to meet the growing demand for highly trained security personnel. Notably, security officers remain one of the top job vacancies annually in Singapore.
Mr. Aw Tuan Kee, Deputy Principal of Temasek Polytechnic, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “By upskilling our security workforce and supporting career transitions, we are not only strengthening individual capabilities but also addressing the dynamic needs of an evolving industry. With the launch of the new Security Technology Experience Centre in 2025, we look forward to sharing knowledge and promoting innovative security solutions to both local and international communities.”
Collaboration with industry leaders
Canon Singapore will lead the establishment of the STEC, supported by its group of companies, including Axis Communications, BriefCam, and Milestone Systems. Together, these organisations will provide a comprehensive suite of security and surveillance technologies, such as advanced cameras, intelligent video analytics software, and robust video management systems.
This collective expertise will create a world-class learning hub where students, mid-career switchers, and current professionals can gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge about modern security systems.
The collaboration signifies an important step towards innovation and workforce development in the security industry, with Canon Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic setting the foundation for future advancements.