RUNNER-UP

Digital Innovation of the Year Award

NUS Wi-Fi On The Move

RUNNER-UP Digital Innovation of the Year Award

National University of Singapore - Singapore

"Stay Connected, Wherever You Go – NUS Wi-Fi on the Move!"


Summary

NUS Wi-Fi On the Move, launched on August 1, 2023, redefines digital connectivity by extending the National University of Singapore’s secure, high-speed Wi-Fi network to the whole of Singapore, leveraging cutting-edge 5G technology. This trailblazing initiative meets the diverse needs of remote learners, field researchers, and staff who require consistent, reliable internet access far beyond the traditional campus boundaries. Building on the laurels of NUS's acclaimed outdoor Wi-Fi solution, NUS Wi-Fi On the Move ensures that every corner of Singapore enjoys seamless, ultra-reliable connectivity. This project exemplifies efficiency and cost-effectiveness, slashing remote setup expenses by 80% and cutting down installation time by an impressive 95% compared to conventional methods. Such advancements not only boost operational efficiency but also reflect NUS's commitment to pioneering innovative solutions. The initiative's impact on the NUS community is profound. By offering uninterrupted, secure Wi-Fi access across the city, it significantly enhances the quality of teaching and learning, enabling education anytime, anywhere. It also simplifies administrative processes, supporting a more dynamic and responsive university environment. More importantly, NUS Wi-Fi On the Move symbolises a bold step towards realising a Borderless University. This initiative sets an unprecedented standard for inclusive connectivity, showcasing how educational institutions can harness technology to transcend traditional barriers, drive sustainability and provide equitable access to digital resources. NUS stands at the vanguard of digital transformation in higher education, leading the charge towards future-ready infrastructure. NUS Wi-Fi On the Move not only meets current connectivity needs but also shapes the future landscape of secure and inclusive internet access. It solidifies NUS’s position as a leader in technological advancement and a catalyst for market trends towards more inclusive and reliable connectivity solutions.

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Memorandum of Understanding between NUS and StarHub

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IMPACT STORY

Impacting lifes

Since its launch, NUS Wi-Fi On the Move has revolutionised the NUS community by turning all of Singapore into an extended campus. This initiative enables students, faculty, and staff to stay connected and productive from any location, creating a truly borderless learning and working environment.

Students now have the freedom to learn and collaborate from anywhere, whether they are studying at home or conducting field research. Faculty members enjoy the freedom to teach and conduct research beyond campus confines, and administrative staff, including campus security, can manage their tasks remotely, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.

In summary, NUS Wi-Fi On the Move stands out as a beacon of digital innovation and accessibility. By integrating high-speed 5G technology into the university’s infrastructure and offering an easy-to-use interface, it has set a new benchmark for digital connectivity in higher education. This initiative enhances the user experience and aligns with NUS's vision of a Borderless University, empowering its community to stay connected.

LEARNINGS

Lessons learned

We’re honored that NUS Wi-Fi On the Move has been selected among such strong submissions, and we're excited to share some key insights from our journey.

One of the most surprising outcomes of this project was the substantial reduction in both equipment usage and power consumption—by 75% and 92% per hour, respectively. We didn’t initially anticipate that our efforts to enhance digital infrastructure could have such a profound impact on sustainability. This achievement has highlighted the immense potential for digital innovation to contribute to environmental goals, aligning perfectly with NUS’s commitment to sustainability.

Another key learning was the importance of designing for long-term relevance. We focused on creating a solution that could be rapidly deployed within an hour, ensuring continuity even in emergencies. This adaptability has proven crucial in a constantly evolving technological landscape. Our ongoing partnership with StarHub has been essential in keeping the solution up-to-date and responsive to new challenges.

For those looking to undertake a similar path, my advice would be to prioritize sustainability from the outset. Consider how every aspect of your project—from equipment usage to energy consumption—can be optimized for efficiency. Additionally, ensure that your solution is designed with flexibility in mind, so it remains relevant and effective as technology advances.

In conclusion, NUS Wi-Fi On the Move isn’t just a connectivity solution; it’s a forward-thinking initiative that demonstrates how universities can lead in creating sustainable, agile, and globally competitive digital environments.

FUTURE PLANS

What's coming?

NUS Wi-Fi On the Move exemplifies scalable innovation, enabling rapid and cost-effective deployment of remote connectivity across diverse locations. Unlike traditional methods, this initiative reduces setup costs by 80% and improves setup turnaround time by 95%, making it highly feasible for expansion both within and beyond NUS.

The project’s scalability is further reinforced by NUS’s partnership with StarHub Ltd, a multinational telecommunications conglomerate in Singapore, which will be solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in July 2024. This partnership will:

• Enhance secured, borderless access via StarHub’s 5G core, ensuring secure, dedicated network segments for NUS’s diverse user base.
• Extend network connectivity to international locations, providing consistent user experiences for global operations.

A notable immediate application is the support of remote offices in regions such as Laos and Cambodia. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the university and expanding our global reach in education and operations.

Responding to requests for remote office support in regions such as Laos and Cambodia, we are partnering with StarHub to scale our capabilities. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the university and expanding our global reach in education and operations.


KEY STATISTICS

80% | 95% | 75%

The impact of NUS Wi-Fi On the Move is quantifiable through significant metrics that underscore its effectiveness. The initiative has achieved an 80% reduction in costs per temporary remote setup compared to traditional methods and a 95% improvement in se

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