Three collaborate for FTTH training in Singapore

Fiber-optic training specialist The Light Brigade, a division of AFL, will collaborate with Singapore’s Fujikura Asia and The Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College West to create a fiber-optic resource center at the college. The center will offer training materials on fiber optics as well as a showcase devoted to fiber to the home (FTTH). Combined with industrial placement at Fujikura Asia, the center will allow students at ITE to gain knowledge and skills relevant to the fiber-optics industry.

Established as a post-secondary education institution in 1992 under Singapore’s Ministry of Education, the ITE provides career and technical education and develops national occupational skills certification and standards. ITE West is one of three ITE campuses.

“We are delighted to have established a close working relationship with Fujikura and The Light Brigade,” stated Dr. Yek Tiew Ming, principal of ITE College West. “The collaboration will offer an excellent platform for the three parties to draw on each other’s individual strengths and synergize our resources. This partnership is a perfect example of the philosophy of ITE to continually engage industry to provide industry-relevant education that produces industry-ready technical specialists.”

The Light Brigade will offer training expertise, consultancy services, and course material for the center. The initial training courses will focus on the Fiber to the Home Council’s Certified Fiber-to-the-Home Professional (CFHP; see "Fiber-to-the-Home Council to offer professional certification program, supporting growing need for FTTH professionals") program and will prepare students to take the CFHP certification exam.

“The Light Brigade is committed to support students and academia in the area of fiber-optic expertise and certification,” commented Dario De Paolis, vice president and general manager of The Light Brigade. “We hope to inspire the next generation of designers, planners, and technicians in the field of FTTH networks.”

Meanwhile, the FTTH showcase will provide students with market-related hands-on skills. The goal is to develop an FTTH workforce by incorporating industry standards into relevant ITE courses. Fujikura Asia will sponsor the showcase, including the provision of $40,000 worth of equipment and consumables.

“Being one of the leaders in fiber optic technologies, Fujikura is privileged to contribute effectively to the industry and the local community in an educational collaboration with ITE,” commented Toshi Takahashi, managing director of Fujikura Asia. “Education and continuous training are important necessities which enhance one’s knowledge and add value to the entire workforce.”

For more information on fiber-optics training and instructors, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.