SMU Academy Launches Metaverse and DAO Programmes

These programmes aim to equip a broad spectrum of participants interested in the latest technologies of Web 3.0 and prepare them for the new generation of the Internet.

Singapore, 28 June 2022 (Tuesday) - Singapore Management University (SMU) through its professional training arm, SMU Academy, has introduced two new programmes focusing on two major aspects of the highly anticipated Web 3.0 – Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs) and the Metaverse. Developed in partnership with TechFin Consulting, the two introductory programmes “Understanding DAO” and “Diving into the Metaverse” aim to assist working professionals and business leaders in grasping the fundamentals of DAOs and the Metaverse, as well as identify opportunities for application of technologies such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and blockchain in their respective industry or organisation.

The launch of the two programmes comes against the backdrop of Singapore’s commitment to growing the Web 3.0 ecosystem and community as well as the emergence of a new wave of Web 3.0 technologies. The programmes will benefit curious minds, demystify the areas of DAOs and the metaverse and offer a stepping stone for their journey into Web 3.0. Participants looking to tap into job opportunities within the fast-paced and competitive Web 3.0 space can solidify their credentials by obtaining a certificate issued by SMU upon completion of the programme.

Conducted by industry pioneers, it will feature Mr Yong Sheng Le, a former Deputy Director of the FinTech and Innovation Group at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and Ms Soh Wan Wei, CEO and founder of IKIGUIDE Metaverse Collective, Singapore’s first bitcoin and blockchain education portal. Complemented by SMU’s unique teaching pedagogy and andragogy principles, participants can expect to delve into real life case studies and applications that will help facilitate a holistic learning experience and prepare them for the digital future. The first run of the “Understanding DAO” programme will be held on 3 August 2022, while the “Diving into the Metaverse” programme will be held on 22 August 2022. Applications are now open for the first run of both programmes.

The dawn of Web 3.0 presents many untapped opportunities for individuals and businesses operating within many sectors of the economy. SMU Academy strives to prepare the workforce with the competencies required for today’s rapidly changing world as well as develop the capabilities needed to support Singapore’s ambitions as a digital tech hub. With interest from the Government, businesses and individuals in Web 3.0 technologies at an all-time high, SMU Academy will seek to deepen strategic partnerships with industry to co-develop industry-relevant curricula and marshal digital technology to create an experiential and collaborative learning experience for our participants. As part of SMU Academy’s broader series of programmes on Web 3.0 technologies, SMU Academy has also introduced two fundamental programmes on  Metaverse, Gaming and GameFi Play-to-Earn, which commence in September 2022.

Mr Jack Lim, Executive Director, SMU Academy, said, “Expanding the horizon of what Web 3.0 means for society begins with equipping our workforce with the relevant knowledge to seize these new opportunities, strengthen innovation and advance a wave of emerging tech. Businesses that are involved in the metaverse early will enjoy early adopter advantages, allowing them to have more ownership of the metaverse’s total available market and culture as it becomes more mainstream. SMU Academy, with our deep linkages to both academia and industry, is well-positioned to offer a comprehensive suite of structured training to build new capabilities, skillsets and mindsets in emerging areas and new frontiers.”

The fees for the Metaverse and DAO programmes each range from as low as $121 (after SkillsFuture subsidies, which can fund up to 90% off course fees for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents). For SMEs looking to upskill their workers, the government-supported Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS) will offer up to 90% in subsidies as well. Interested participants with access to the Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA) may also use it to offset the balance of fees payable after utilising their SkillsFuture credit. More details about the SMU programmes on Metaverse and DAO can be found in the links below:

Understanding Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs)

Diving into the Metaverse

Web 3.0 Economy: Metaverse, Gaming and GameFi Play-to-Earn Fundamentals I

Web 3.0 Economy: Metaverse, Gaming and GameFi Play-to-Earn Fundamentals II