Prospective aviation professionals can now pursue a diploma while serving as cabin crew, courtesy of a new Work-Study Diploma (WSDip) programme introduced by the Institute of Technical Education (ITE). The 2½-year Work-Study Diploma in Customer Experience Management (Cabin Services) was unveiled at ITE's inaugural aviation symposium and is designed to provide individuals with both academic and industry skills. Over 100 applications have already been received for the programme.
One of the earliest to apply is 21-year-old Nur Nadhrah Musa, who is doing a Higher Nitec in passenger services while working as a cabin crew intern at low-cost carrier Jetstar Asia. Encouraged by her parents, who have careers in the aviation industry, she viewed the new diploma course as an opportunity to upgrade her skills while pursuing her passion. Her mother is in the ticket department of Saudia Airlines, while her father is with ground-handling firm Sats. In October 2024, Ms Nadhrah has been making turnaround flights for Jetstar Asia to places like Bali and Osaka.
During the symposium, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat laid stress on equipping skilled aviation professionals to cater to the growing demand for air travel. As airlines add to their fleets, the demand for seasoned cabin crew leaders also grows. He said that the new diploma programme enables new talent to gain a qualification while obtaining industry experience and offers current employees a career development opportunity.
In order to make sure that students are provided with industry-relevant training, ITE is in partnership with aviation companies including Scoot, the low-cost arm of Singapore Airlines, and Jetstar Asia. These industry partners will be the drivers of on-the-job training and will be able to customize the curriculum based on their operational requirements. Jetstar Asia's chief executive, John Simeone, pointed out that the aviation sector relies on a highly adaptable and skilled manpower. He said that by integrating practical training with classroom learning, the new programme will equip students for various career paths in aviation. ITE is also in talks with other airlines to participate in the programme, although more details have not been released.
The Work-Study Diploma in Cabin Services is one of a series of moves by ITE to increase its courses related to aviation. The institute currently offers more than 40 work-study diploma programmes, including six focused on aviation. Other aviation-related diplomas include airport operations, aircraft engine maintenance, aircraft cabin engineering, and border control. Students in these work-study diploma programmes spend up to 80 percent of their time gaining hands-on experience in the workplace, with the remainder dedicated to classroom-based learning.
Interest in aviation industry work-study programmes has heightened in recent times, with applications more than doubled since 2022. This increased interest, Mr Chee said, was encouraging as it aligns with Singapore's plans to be one of the best global aviation centres. In addition to skills attainment, there have also been steps taken to advance working conditions of aviation workers, especially ground handlers.
Identifying the plight of airport staff, Mr Chee admitted increased heat stress and unpredictable weather conditions are among the main concerns. To mitigate this, Changi Airport Group will be investing in upgrading staff facilities in the next few years. The changes will consist of adding 'refresh pods' to alleviate heat stress, upgrading lightning shelters, and improving staff lounges and rest areas.
Changi Airport is gradually bouncing back from the effects of the pandemic, serving 67.7 million passengers in 2024, 99.1 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Authorities are confident that passenger traffic will surpass pre-Covid-19 levels in 2025. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience the fastest growth in air travel over the next two decades, accounting for more than half of global passenger demand by 2040. Given its strong position as a premier air hub, Changi Airport is well-placed to capitalize on this growth.
The aviation symposium, which took place at ITE College East, saw about 600 students and industry players attending. The Work-Study Diploma in Cabin Services launch is an important milestone for Singapore's drive to develop aviation talent and achieve the long-term sustainability of the industry.
