International exposure programme connects APU students with global companies and ASEAN employers, strengthening their readiness for future technology careers.

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Eighty students from the School of Technology (SoT) and the School of Computing (SoC) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently participated in the Career Exploration Programme (CEP) – Singapore Edition, organised by the APU Career Centre. 

The three-day, two-night visit, which took place from 5 to 7 February 2026, was designed as an international immersion initiative aimed at equipping students with regional market exposure, industry intelligence and cross-border career insights within one of ASEAN’s most dynamic economies. 

CEP forms part of a broader series of initiatives organised by the APU Career Centre, which are planned to take place six to seven times annually across Malaysia and selected overseas job markets. The programme provides students with valuable opportunities to understand global industry expectations and explore career possibilities beyond national borders. 

Participation in the Singapore edition was self-funded, with students selected based on academic merit. Most participants were Year Two and above IT and Engineering students with a CGPA of 3.2 and above, reflecting the university’s emphasis on recognising academic dedication while opening doors to international exposure. 

Understanding Industry Strategy and Sustainable Innovation

The programme began with parallel corporate visits that exposed students to organisations operating at the forefront of global industries. 

At Wilmar International, one of Asia’s leading agribusiness groups, students gained insights into the scale and complexity of global supply chain management. The session highlighted how multinational corporations integrate procurement, processing, distribution and sustainability within a cohesive global business framework. 

Through discussions with industry professionals, students explored integrated business models, operational efficiency and the role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in corporate decision-making. The visit also introduced them to the challenges of global trade and talent development within multinational organisations.

Another group visited Greenphyto, where they were introduced to the fast-growing landscape of biotechnology and sustainability-driven innovation.

The session demonstrated how scientific research and technological breakthroughs are translated into commercially viable solutions that address environmental and industrial challenges. Students also gained insights into research commercialisation, innovation cycles and the growing demand for specialised skill sets in emerging sectors.

Discovering the Future of Technology and Fintech

On the second day, the programme shifted its focus to the rapidly evolving technology and fintech ecosystem.

During a visit to PayPal, students were introduced to the digital infrastructure that powers global financial transactions. Industry professionals shared perspectives on cybersecurity frameworks, product innovation and data-driven decision-making in the fintech industry.

The engagement also highlighted the importance of cross-functional collaboration, agility and continuous learning for professionals navigating fast-changing digital environments.

Students later visited Amazon Web Services (AWS), where they explored how cloud computing enables organisations to innovate and scale globally. 

Discussions emphasised the increasing demand for cloud expertise, digital literacy and adaptive problem-solving skills in today’s workforce. The session also reinforced the importance of professional certifications and continuous upskilling for sustainable career development within the technology sector. 

From Industry Exposure to Real Career Opportunities

Complementing the corporate engagements, students also explored Singapore’s economic ecosystem through independent city exploration, gaining first-hand observations of the country’s infrastructure, urban planning and vibrant business environment. 

The programme concluded with participation in the ASEAN Career Fair with Japan, where students interacted directly with recruiters from leading Japanese companies and organisations operating across ASEAN. The event allowed them to explore internship and employment opportunities while gaining valuable insights into Japanese corporate culture, hiring expectations, and the competitive regional job market. 

Reflecting on the experience, Shayan Akhlaq, a recent APU graduate with a dual degree in Tourism Management, described the programme as a valuable opportunity for career discovery. “It provided meaningful exposure to career possibilities in the region and helped students better understand industry expectations while exploring opportunities for internships and future employment.” 

Leoneal Albert Wong, a Diploma in Information & Communication Technology student, said the programme offered clarity about the working world. “Hearing directly from professionals helped us understand the skills companies look for and motivated us to prepare ourselves more seriously for our future careers.” 

Fahima Akhter, a Master of Science in Cyber Security student, described the experience as eye-opening. “The programme bridged academic learning with real-world innovation and offered valuable insight into how technology ecosystems operate in a highly developed economy.” 

Dr Sryee Inthran, Director of Industry Engagement (Talent) at the APU Career Centre and Programme Director of CEP, explained that Singapore was strategically chosen for its strong position as a regional hub for innovation and global enterprise. 

“What truly distinguishes this programme is the opportunity for students to engage directly with industry environments and professionals. Such exposure expands their global outlook and strengthens the confidence needed to navigate an increasingly competitive international workforce,” she said. 

Through initiatives such as the Career Exploration Programme, APU continues to provide meaningful global exposure that empowers students to shape informed career pathways while preparing them for opportunities within the wider ASEAN and international technology landscape.