
Singapore’s ambition to lead as a global hub for AI and advanced analytics is accelerating demand for skilled data professionals. As industries accelerate digital transformation, organisations are seeking talent that not only understands theory, but can apply data science to real-world challenges at scale.
Recent market signals reinforce this shift. Demand for AI roles in Singapore rose by about 15% to 25% in the past year, with entry-level salaries ranging between $70,000 and $90,000 annually.
This highlights a structural gap: While the need for data talent is growing, the supply of industry-ready professionals has struggled to keep pace.
Addressing this gap requires more than periodic hiring or academic output — it requires a sustained, ecosystem-driven approach to talent development.
MaivenPoint’s Work-Study Programme contributes to Singapore’s evolving digital ecosystem, enabling young professionals to build applied skills in AI and data science while addressing critical talent gaps.
As part of this ongoing initiative, MaivenPoint has welcomed the third cohort of students of the Work-Study Programme in Singapore.
This latest cohort includes 22 high-potential students from Vietnam pursuing a master’s degree in Data Science. Selected for their academic performance and demonstrated potential, these students represent the next wave of talent poised to shape data-driven industries.
Before arriving in Singapore, participants completed a three-month immersive training programme in Ho Chi Minh City under the MaivenPoint Tech Talent Programme. This phase provided foundational technical skills and exposure to industry practices required in a fast-evolving field.
By integrating cross-border training with local opportunities, the programme expands the talent pipeline and strengthens regional collaboration.
The Work-Study Programme uses a structured model that connects academic theory to real-world application.
Participants complete a two-year journey that enables them to:
Study advanced data science and analytics concepts.
Gain hands-on industry experience through structured employment.
Apply skills to business challenges across sectors, including finance, the public sector, and enterprise technology.
Build technical expertise and professional competencies.
This integrated approach helps students graduate with in-demand qualifications and practical experience, enabling them to contribute from day one.
Zoe Shang, CEO of MaivenPoint, says:
“Demand for data talent is growing, but organisations need professionals who can translate theory with real-world impact. Through the Work-Study Programme, we combine academic excellence, industry exposure, and cross-border collaboration to develop talent prepared for a digital-first economy.”

Singapore offers an environment that supports this transition from training to real-world application. As one of Asia’s leading innovation hubs, Singapore offers students exposure to cutting-edge technologies, dynamic industries, and a diverse professional ecosystem.
Through the programme, participants will also gain on-the-job experience with industry practitioners, collaborating on projects that apply artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics to solve real-world challenges. This hands-on experience strengthens their ability to apply knowledge in practical settings — a critical capability in data-driven environments.
The Work-Study Programme is a joint academic and industry initiative that develops globally minded, industry-ready data professionals.
By combining cross-border collaboration, academic excellence, and practical experience, the programme equips participants to become data-driven decision-makers and contributors to AI, analytics, and digital transformation initiatives.
As the new batch of participants begins their journey in Singapore, they join a growing community of emerging leaders committed to shaping the future of technology and business.
