UTAR strengthens ties with E-Bridge Preschool, Singapore

A delegation from UTAR Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) visited E-Bridge Preschool, a Reggio Emilia-inspired pre-school and childcare centre in Singapore, from 20 to 22 November 2024. The visit aimed to strengthen academic and professional collaboration between the two institutions and culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

Representing UTAR were FCI Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Ts Dr Simon Ang Kok Yew, Department of Early Childhood Studies Head Dr Annie Wong Kai Sze, and academics Ms Shu Bo Yue and Ms Yip Chan Ling. During their visit, the team explored three E-Bridge preschool centres: E-Bridge Pre-School Telok Blangah, E-Bridge Pre-School Large Child Care Centre in Punggol, and E-Bridge Pre-School Large Child Care Centre in Sengkang. These tours provided a first-hand look at E-Bridge’s state-of-the-art facilities and innovative approaches to early childhood education.

Beyond site visits, the delegation engaged in productive discussions with E-Bridge Preschool Chief Executive Officer Mr Yek Boon Seng and Human Resources Director Mr Lee Chee Keong. These discussions focused on expanding collaboration between UTAR and E-Bridge. A key highlight was the exploration of recruitment opportunities for UTAR students in E-Bridge’s Infant Care Programme. The programme offers a promising career pathway, welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds while ensuring they meet the necessary requirements set by the Singapore government.

E-Bridge also expressed interest in recruiting students from other disciplines, such as marketing, to bring a broader range of expertise into its operations. In addition, E-Bridge was invited to participate in the Career Fair 2025, creating an avenue to engage with students and share information about scholarships, career prospects, and the operations of its centres.

The signing of the MoU symbolised the commitment of both institutions in nurturing skilled professionals and fostering opportunities for cross-border collaboration in early childhood education. This collaboration underscores UTAR’s dedication to building strong industry linkages that benefit its students and contribute to the advancement of early childhood education.