Google has said that it will keep working to strengthen its ties to the Singapore government.
The search giant announced a number of initiatives in the areas of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and skilling at the recent Google for Singapore event, which was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The company also marked the official opening of its third data center facility in Jurong to improve access to Google services.
Google entered Singapore almost 15 years ago.
The improvement of the 2020-launched Skills Ignition SG (SISG) program is first on the agenda. In a joint effort with the Singaporean government, more than 5,500 people have acquired new skills and received certification as a result.
Three significant updates are being made to the effort as it evolves: an extended employer consortium for SISG graduates, a new Digital Marketing and e-commerce track on Google Career Certificates, and an improved traineeship program for 60 Singaporeans.
Google will develop its AI technology further at the same time. Together with the Smart Nation and Digital Government Group (SNDGG), Google Cloud is developing cutting-edge AI solutions that will enhance Singaporeans’ quality of life and productivity, enhance public service capabilities, and improve AI ethics.
Additionally, Google’s list of partners also includes the Media Literacy Council and the Infocomm Media Development (IMDA). In the coming 12 months, they will work together to educate 50,000 parents and kids about online safety, starting by introducing the Be Internet Awesome (BIA) program to elementary schools. This includes providing instructors with online safety tools and bringing the Google Online Safety Park to particular schools so that kids can engage in hands-on learning.
The company’s announcement of its first donation through Google.org in Singapore brings the event to a close. The philanthropic arm will give Mandai Nature US$1 million (S$1.4 million) to help the Southeast Asia Climate and Nature-based Solutions (SCeNe) Coalition address the ongoing climate issue.
As Google Singapore continues to grow, from personal development to fostering eco-friendly practices, there will be more initiatives and programmes that will deepen its social commitment and leading position as a regional and global hub for technological innovation.
