Engineering a Brighter Future: New Aster Bursary at SIT to Nurture and Inspire Next Generation of Engineers

The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and Aster have established a new bursary to provide sustained financial support for engineering undergraduates in need. The initiative reflects the collective responsibility to developing talent and supporting the manufacturing sector’s adoption of new energy transition solutions as an important part of Singapore’s economic future.

On 22 October 2025, a delegation from Aster visited the SIT Punggol Campus for a signing ceremony to formalise the bursary agreement. During the visit, the delegation toured key campus facilities and received a special token of appreciation – an artwork depicting the campus created by local artist Douglas Leong, who was diagnosed with a developmental disorder at the age of three. The gesture highlighted the partnership between Aster and SIT, as well as the shared commitment in making quality higher education more accessible and nurturing future-ready professionals in key industry sectors.

Through a combination of endowed and term gifts totalling $521,300, the Aster Bursary, valued at $5,000 per award, will support four students annually. It will prioritise undergraduates pursuing degrees in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Power Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.

Group CEO of Aster, Mr Erwin Ciptura, explained the company’s vision, "We believe in investing in Singapore's human capital as the foundation of our nation's continued innovation and progress. Singapore is not only home to some of the region’s brightest talent and tenured industry experience, it is importantly a strategic hub for Aster. These bursaries represent more than financial support, they are an investment in the brilliant minds who will drive Singapore’s technological advancement and economic growth, and in turn strengthen Aster’s partnership with the country’s future."

Mr Thomas Wong, Manufacturing Director and Board Director at Aster, underscored the need to nurture engineering talent. “The energy & chemicals sector remain the foundation for many adjacent sectors and ecosystems in Singapore. It is vital to keep investing in building manufacturing and engineering talent as that drives innovation and long-term growth,” he said, emphasising the need to ensure that engineering students across universities, polytechnics, tertiary institutions and ITEs continue to be supported. Mr Wong also highlighted the possibility of offering internships and exploring deeper collaborations, noting that companies like Aster play a vital role in sustaining Singapore’s broader innovation landscape.  

Highlighting the impact of this philanthropic initiative, Mr Marc Chan, Director of the SIT Advancement Office, said, “The Aster Bursary will provide meaningful support to many SIT undergraduates, empowering them to pursue their aspirations with confidence, knowing that they are supported in their journey. As Singapore’s University for Industry, SIT equips students with industry-relevant skills and real-world experience, preparing them for vital roles in the engineering sector, driving innovation and contributing to a more sustainable future. SIT is truly grateful for Aster' generosity and partnership, which will transform lives and inspire a spirit of giving that strengthens our community.”

Immediate-term bursaries will be made available from this Academic Year 2025/26, ahead of the endowment’s maturity. This ensures timely impact while reinforcing SIT’s mission to deliver accessible, industry-aligned education that adapts to evolving aspirations of leaders and the needs of the nation.