In August 2022, Singapore’s Smart Nation and Digital Government Group (SNDGG) and Google Cloud signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) innovation within the country. (smartnation.gov.sg) This partnership marked the first public-private collaboration in AI between Singapore’s National AI Office and a global technology company.
Key Areas of Collaboration:
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Applied Research and Development (R&D): Google Cloud and its subsidiaries collaborated with SNDGG’s National AI Office and other government agencies to co-create, test, and scale AI solutions in sectors such as finance, sustainability, and healthcare.
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Competency and Capability Development: Google Cloud provided dedicated training resources and certification programs to cultivate deep AI and machine learning proficiency among public sector officers. These programs built upon existing initiatives like Google’s Skills Ignition SG training program, in partnership with SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).
- AI Governance and Ethics: Google Cloud supported Singapore’s efforts to shape AI governance and ethics, particularly in sectors like finance. This complemented Google’s involvement in Singapore’s Advisory Council of the Ethical Use of AI and contributions to the Model AI Governance Framework.
This MoU aimed to leverage Google’s technical expertise and investments to benefit Singapore’s innovation ecosystem, positioning the nation as a testbed for new AI solutions. The collaboration sought to develop AI solutions that would positively impact the way Singaporeans live and work.
The partnership between SNDGG and Google Cloud exemplifies how public and private sectors can collaborate to drive innovative projects for the greater good, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
