Image Credit: National University Singapore
StarHub and the National University Singapore (NUS) are working together to build Singapore’s first ‘Borderless University’ to harness advanced digital infrastructure and 5G technologies.
The joint initiative between StarHub and NUS aims to enhance students’ learning experience from a robust connectivity framework and secure network segmentation using a private and dedicated 5G network with transfer speeds up to 1.2 Gpbs (gigabits per second).
NUS students and staff can experience faster and lower-latency connections that support applications such as virtual and augmented reality, and real-time data analytics.
Efficient user experience using eSIMS
NUS can also better utilise data analytics and AI as insights and data collected from eSIMs to make data-driven decisions.
An eSIM card trial will begin in the fourth quarter of 2024 in phases until the middle of 2025. Following this, StarHub and NUS will look to expand the service throughout the wider campus.
With eSIMs, users can access the University’s digital assets more quickly and smoothly, without repeated logins when using Wi-Fi. This enhanced connectivity is expected to stay lag-free even with multiple users, extending the learning environment beyond physical boundaries.
The introduction of eSIM also enhances the efficiency of the onboarding process for new users at NUS. By eliminating the need for physical SIM card deployment, the activation process will be streamlined. Students and staff can register and activate their eSIM with a simple QR code scan to get connected.
Enabling VR/AR simulations
Tan Shui-Min, Chief Information Technology Officer of NUS said, “Staff and students will benefit from seamless access to NUS’ resources and the Internet, wherever they are in Singapore; and in the future, overseas, without the need for VPN or other remote access technologies. Over time we believe that the integration of 5G technology will empower educators to deliver more interactive and personalised learning experiences, such as virtual labs and augmented reality simulations.”
“In line with our DARE+ initiative, the partnership with NUS will not only enhance the learning environment for NUS staff and students, but also set a benchmark for the future of education and offer valuable learnings for other industry applications,” said Tan Kit Yong, Head of Enterprise Business Group, StarHub.
Since 2022, StarHub and NUS have collaborated on pioneering initiatives in smart campus and connectivity technology innovation. These include the successful rollout of a outdoor Wi-Fi network and Wi-Fi on the Move Solution.