Nanyang Polytechnic wins at GovMedia Conference & Awards 2026 for workforce transformation
The institution drove culture change through digital training and widespread generative AI adoption.
Nanyang Polytechnic won Singapore Human Resource Development of the Year - Higher Education in the GovMedia Conference & Awards 2026. The institution received the accolade for its agency-wide workforce transformation journey, which focused on shifting mindsets, deep digitalisation, and equipping staff with future-ready skills.
Guided by the philosophy of doing things better and making life better, Nanyang Polytechnic redefined innovation to make it applicable to all staff levels across all work areas. The institution articulated six desired behaviours to foster collaboration, experimentation, data literacy, and continuous learning within its population.
As part of this journey, Nanyang Polytechnic developed a new methodology called SPAR2K to help staff move from problem statements to workable solutions. This methodology has been copyrighted, whilst plans are underway to train all staff by the end of 2026.
To build digital competencies, the institution provided baseline training in artificial intelligence literacy, prompt engineering, and responsible use. Currently, the majority of the staff have completed this training, and leadership capability has been strengthened to lead teams through organisational complexity.
The workforce transformation yielded significant operational improvements. Staff delivered 21 ground-up initiatives that improved efficiency and workflows, such as a reduction in tender evaluation time, streamlined student claims with fewer errors, and cost savings from harmonised information technology services.
Furthermore, generative artificial intelligence became deeply integrated into daily operations. Staff adoption of digital assistants saved over 28,000 hours and led to the creation of custom-built assistants that enhance the teaching and learning experience.
Beyond organisational growth for staff, the institution launched an inaugural Innovation Carnival. The event engaged over 3,000 learners in hands-on experiences, which showcased various prototypes and fostered interdisciplinary collaboration across the student body.
GovMedia Conference & Awards gives recognition to the trends and best practices that transform the public sector in the Asia Pacific. The awards programme promotes excellence and provides a platform for exemplary government initiatives.
The GovMedia Conference & Awards is presented by GovMedia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be recognised for your organisation's government projects and initiatives, please contact Marni Marco at +(65) 3158 1386 and [email protected].
