The Japanese construction and real estate firm joined hands with the local tertiary education institution, signalling a pivotal step to bring cutting-edge expertise to students and providing them with unique opportunities for practical learning and exposure to real-world industry challenges.
In a significant stride toward advancing education and fostering industry collaboration, Kajima Development, Kajima Corporation, and Temasek Polytechnic have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance educational and research initiatives in facilities management.
The MoU signing ceremony took place on October 27, 2023, at The GEAR: Kajima Lab for Global Engineering, Architecture & Real Estate, with a keynote address by Mr. Cheng Tai Fatt, Senior Consultant (Digitalisation), Construction Productivity and Quality Group at the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). The collaboration aims to create a dynamic partnership, fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and skill development in the built environment sectors.
Under this tripartite agreement, Kajima Development, Kajima Corporation, and Temasek Polytechnic will engage in collaborative projects, educational training activities, and other joint open innovation activities involving students and staff. Students and faculty members from Temasek Polytechnic will have the opportunity to work closely with industry professionals, gaining valuable insights and practical experience in real-world projects.
This partnership aligns with the shared vision to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands. By combining the industry experience of Kajima and academic expertise of Temasek Polytechnic, this collaboration aims to produce highly skilled professionals who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the ever-evolving built environment landscape.
“We are delighted to formalise this partnership with Temasek Polytechnic. Kajima is dedicated to nurturing talents, supporting education, and empowering the next generation of industry leaders. This opportunity will equip them with the skills needed to excel in the built environment sector and we look forward to the possibilities and new avenues that emerge from this collaboration,” said Mr. Shuichi Oishi, Chief Executive Officer of Kajima Development.
“We have worked with several local academic institutions through our research arm in Singapore Kajima Technical Research Institute Singapore (KaTRIS) and are thrilled to embark on this new collaboration with Temasek Polytechnic," said Mr. Yoshihiko Riho, Senior Executive Officer of Kajima Corporation and Director of the Kajima Technical Research Institute.
Temasek Polytechnic echoed similar sentiments about the partnership. “This MOU signing ceremony is a testament to our continued dedication to advancing the field of Built Environment, and Temasek Polytechnic's principles are perfectly aligned with Kajima's vision and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this sector,” said Mr. Song Kwok Yuen, Director at the School of Engineering.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of excellence in education and industry engagement. By fostering a strong partnership between industry and academia, Kajima and Temasek Polytechnic are poised to equip the next generation of facilities management professionals with the expertise needed to address the challenges of tomorrow.
About Kajima Development Pte Ltd
Kajima Development Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based real estate developer with business interest across the Southeast Asia region. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kajima Corporation (鹿島建設株式会社, Kajima Kensetsu Kabushiki-gaisha) – one of the oldest and largest construction companies in Japan. Founded in 1840, the company has its headquarters in Motoaksaka, Minato, Tokyo. In the region, Kajima is also represented by Kajima Overseas Asia, which represents its construction business. Kajima's services include design, engineering, construction, and real estate development. Select construction projects include Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Financial Centre. Select development projects include Woodleigh Residences and Bishopsgate Residences.
About Kajima Technical Research Institute Singapore (KaTRIS), Kajima Corporation
Kajima Technical Research Institute (KaTRI) was established in 1949 as the first technical research institute established by a construction company and has consistently played a central role in upholding Kajima’s presence for technology. In September 2013, the Kajima Technical Research Institute Singapore (KaTRIS) opened its first overseas office in Singapore. It has continued to evolve as a research center, leading the way in the Kajima Group’s advanced activities globally. While building a network with Singaporean government and university-affiliated institutions, KaTRIS has been establishing a track record in providing technical support to Kajima Group companies overseas and technical consulting to local developers and design/engineering companies.
About Temasek Polytechnic
Established in 1990, TP is one of the leading institutions of higher learning in Singapore. Currently it offers 36 full-time diploma courses in the areas of applied science, business, design, engineering, humanities & social sciences and informatics & IT. It also offers over 40 part-time courses, up to advanced diploma level. TP students undergo a holistic learning system that combines hands-on experience, character education and relevant life skills, in an enriching learning environment.
The Polytechnic has also infused global realities into its programmes and developed a mindset on campus that embraces socio-cultural diversity. These ensure that TP graduates are ready for work or further studies, and to contribute meaningfully to the community. For more information, please visit www.tp.edu.sg.