The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has extended its scholarship programme to Institute of Technical Education (ITE) students for the first time, in line with its efforts to attract more local talent to a booming construction sector.

Previously, the scholarship was available only to university and polytechnic students. Attracting local talent at all levels is a "key component" of the BCA's plan to steer growth and sustain productivity in the built environment sector, said its chief executive John Keung. He cited a recent manpower survey by the BCA, where more than 1,000 firms in the built environment sector said they were planning to hire this year. The survey also indicated that many companies in the industry expect salaries to increase across the board this year.

ITE chief executive Bruce Poh said the scholarship will provide students with a "clear and structured progression path" in the industry.

Acting Minister of Manpower Tan Chuan-Jin gave out awards to 163 recipients pursuing built environment courses at ITE at a ceremony on Tuesday afternoon. The students are enrolled in a variety of courses like structural engineering, facility management and interior design. They will have their course fees paid for, and will each receive a monthly allowance of $500.

At the ceremony, Mr Tan told recipients that a career in the built environment industry is "not just about building buildings... but a quality environment where you and your families can work and enjoy themselves".