It was a celebratory occasion as the Graduate Diploma in Systems Analysis (GDipSA) 58th and 59th cohort gathered for their Graduation Ceremony at the NUS-ISS Inspire Theatre held on 6 September 2025.
Said Guest-of-Honour Mr Ng Kuo Pin, NCS Chief Executive Officer: "Your values are like your inner compass - you will need that when you navigate through the uncertainties of life and career."
Guest-of-Honour Mr Ng Kuo Pin addressing the cohort
Valedictorians Mr Xia Tian (GDipSA58) and Mr Melvin Ng (GDipSA59) reflected on their transformative journey. From late-night debugging and endless group projects, to learning that software engineering is more than building systems, it's about building possibilities together.
Valedictorian Mr Xia Tian (GDipSA58).
Xia Tian, who has a Bachelor of Engineering in Aircraft Design and Engineering as well as a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, had no prior background in the Information Technology field. Earlier in his career, he had experience in engineering at United Microelectronics Corporation.
Valedictorian Mr Melvin Ng (GDipSA59).
Melvin, who has a Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours, also had no prior background in the Information Technology field. Earlier in his career, he was a Registered Pharmacist with the Ministry of Health.
Extending a warm welcome to the newest members of the NUS-ISS GDipSA alumni family was Mr George Heng who graduated in 1991. George, CEO of SenzeHub, shared how the GDipSA programme transformed his career, equipping him with critical thinking, problem-solving and systems-analysis skills that enabled him to move from mechanical engineering into regional leadership roles at global firms such as Accenture, Visa International, Citibank, Oracle and Citrix.
NUS-ISS alumnus Mr George Heng (GDipSA10).
Reflecting on his journey, he highlighted how the programme instilled lifelong habits of breaking down complex challenges and developing real-world solutions - a mindset that continues to guide his work today as he creates health-tech solutions to support ageing populations and community care. “The training I received at NUS-ISS gave me more than technical expertise; it shaped the way I analyse, adapt and act,” he said.
As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, George encouraged them to leverage their new skills to drive meaningful change, and to stay connected with the NUS-ISS alumni community to share ideas, collaborate on initiatives and give back to society.
A GDipSA graduate's journey
In order to transit into a digital professional within a year, our GDipSA graduates had to master five programming languages over the course of seven months and complete projects that involved developing IT solutions utilising Web, Mobile, and Machine learning technologies. They also underwent a rigorous month-long project that includes product ideation, problem-solving, user experience design, system analysis and design, coding, testing, and implementation. And experienced a five-month internship to apply their newly acquired knowledge, in real-world scenarios, developing and delivering digital solutions that clients required.
The room was filled with proud parents and loved ones as the day unfolded, creating unforgettable memories at this momentous occasion. To all our graduates, we extend our heartfelt congratulations once again! Your hard work and dedication have brought you to this remarkable milestone. The future holds endless possibilities, and we eargerly look forward to all the incredible achievements you will accomplish.
Own your transformation journey now. For more information on NUS-ISS' Graduate Diploma in Systems Analysis Programme, visit here.
To view pictures from the GDipSA SA58 and SA59 ceremony, click here.