StarHub clinches SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2025 for connectivity innovation

The Borderless University is powered by StarHub’s Enterprise 5G network and hybrid multi-cloud architecture (Cloud Infinity).

StarHub, a leading homegrown Singapore company delivering world-class communications, entertainment, and digital services, was recognised at the SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2025 for its success in co-creating Singapore’s first ‘Borderless University’ with the National University of Singapore (NUS). Together, they have reshaped the campus network to engender ultra-fast, secure, and uninterrupted connectivity.

Winning the Connectivity - Telecommunications category at the awards, the ‘Borderless University, Powered by Infinite Technology’ initiative leverages StarHub’s Enterprise 5G network and its modern digital infrastructure, powered by Cloud Infinity – a hybrid multi-cloud architecture – to enable seamless access to NUS’ digital resources and the internet for staff and students, both in Singapore and abroad.

At the core of this initiative is a private 5G network exclusively built by StarHub for NUS, which is also a first for the nation. The network employs eSIM technology, allowing users to instantly connect to NUS’ digital assets and the internet without the need for a VPN. This innovation also eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, streamlining the onboarding process for students and staff through a simple QR code scan.

Leveraging 5G backhaul technologies, the solution delivers seamless connectivity, even for devices that are not 5G-enabled. It integrates with NUS’ existing network, creating a secure and uninterrupted learning environment both on campus and beyond. Additionally, the solution can potentially reduce NUS’ wired footprint by eliminating the need for physical cables, fostering a greener campus and contributing to reducing carbon footprint.

It has been rigorously tested with a focus group of staff and students to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and user experience. Feedback from the focus group helped StarHub tailor the network solution to better meet user needs.

Staff and students have praised the smooth user experience, highlighting the ability to study and collaborate without boundaries. Both groups have valued the simplicity and convenience of the solution, which eliminates the need for VPNs or complex configurations, offering instant and secure access to NUS digital resources anytime, anywhere.

“The 5G network has completely transformed how I learn at NUS. I can seamlessly access study materials, quizzes, and exams anytime, whether I’m on campus or at home. With secure and reliable connectivity, I can take exams or complete assignments on the go confidently using my 5G-enabled PCs or devices without disruptions. This convenience has also significantly boosted my productivity, saving me around three extra hours each week. The extra time has allowed me to focus more on my studies,” said Year 3 Faculty of Dentistry student, Chua Sim Ying.

Borderless University embodies StarHub’s commitment to delivering human-centric innovations whilst aligning with NUS IT's mission to catalyse the university into the New Digital for education, research, and administration through technology and innovation.

“This collaboration with StarHub aligns with our vision for a future-oriented learning environment. Both staff and students will benefit from seamless access to NUS’ resources and the internet, wherever they are in Singapore; and in the future, overseas, without the need for VPN or other remote access technologies,” Ms Tan Shui-Min, Chief Information Technology Officer of NUS, remarked during the signing of the memorandum of understanding.

“We are proud to partner with the National University of Singapore to co-create Singapore’s first Borderless University. This award win is a testament to the strength of our collaboration and the transformative potential of StarHub’s Modern Digital Infrastructure,” said Mr Tan Kit Yong, Head of Enterprise Business Group, StarHub. “By harnessing the power of Enterprise 5G and intelligent cloud technologies, we are enabling a seamless, secure, and future-ready digital learning experience that sets a new benchmark for higher education and beyond.”

SBR Technology Excellence Awards celebrates technological innovations in Singapore, highlighting exceptional companies that are riding the digital disruption wave with groundbreaking technology initiatives that have made an impact on the economy.

The SBR Technology Excellence Awards is presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2026 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's outstanding contributions in pursuit of technological innovation, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].