Written Reply by Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing on 4 Nov 2026 to Parliamentary Question on Synergies Between Cyber and Digital Work-learn Schemes, and IMDA'S Bridge2Tech Internships
5 November 2026
While the DIS’s Cyber and Digital WLS and IMDA's Bridge2Tech initiative serve different purposes, they contribute to the broader national effort to develop Singapore's cyber and tech talent. There are currently no direct interactions between the two programmes.
The Digital and Intelligence Service's (DIS’s) Cyber and Digital Work-Learn Scheme (WLS) allows Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) to achieve sponsored, academic progression in areas vital to the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF’s) operational needs, while serving Full-time National Service (FTNS). The NSFs use the skills and knowledge obtained to conduct operations in specialised Cyber and Digital roles. In contrast, the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA’s) TIP Alliance+ Bridge2Tech helps Information and Digital Technology (IDT) students from Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) transition into technology careers across the economy by building industry experience and job-relevant skills.
While the DIS’s Cyber and Digital WLS and IMDA's Bridge2Tech initiative serve different purposes, they contribute to the broader national effort to develop Singapore's cyber and tech talent. There are currently no direct interactions between the two programmes. The Ministry of Defence/Singapore Armed Forces (MINDEF/SAF) remains open to engaging and cooperating with relevant Government agencies and programmes to explore opportunities and synergies to strengthen the cyber and tech talent ecosystem, where these align with defence and operational requirements.
