Employer sponsorships show 'an increasingly collective commitment to lifelong learning'
SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) says there was a significant uptick in training participation among both employers and mid-career workers in 2023, highlighting a growing emphasis on lifelong learning and upskilling.
According to SSG's latest figures, roughly 520,000 individuals, including 200,000 mid-career workers, engaged in training programs supported by the organization.
This marks a 28% increase in mid-career workers benefiting from the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidies (MCES) compared to 2022.
"We expect the annual participation of individuals to remain around 500,000, as we continue to expand training opportunities and ensure quality and industry relevance," stated an SSG spokesperson.
In a noteworthy trend, more employers are sponsoring their workforce for SSG-supported training. In 2023, about 23,000 enterprises sponsored about 228,000 workers. Commissioner Robert Hortle from Victoria's Wage Inspectorate underscored the importance of creating a safe workplace for young employees, emphasizing the role of child employment laws in achieving this goal.
“It is encouraging that more employers are sponsoring more workers for SSG-supported courses. It shows an increasingly collective commitment to lifelong learning, across the ecosystem of employers, workers and training providers,” said Tan Kok Yam, Chief Executive of SSG.
“With the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme coming into effect, we need to continue to work together to give Singaporeans the training, that is of high quality, of high relevance, and of high impact to their career and their ability to contribute as an employee.”
Career transition programme
Meanwhile, SSG has ramped up its efforts to provide courses with high industry and career relevance. Programs like the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) have seen significant expansion, with 180 courses offered in 2023, up from 82 the previous year.
Based on SSG's Training Quality and Outcomes Measurement (TRAQOM) survey, 98% of learners reported improved performance at work after SSG-supported training. Additionally, 93% noted the role of the courses in advancing their careers, highlighting the effectiveness of the programs in driving professional growth.
With a continued focus on enhancing training quality and relevance, SSG remains dedicated to supporting employers and individuals in their upskilling journey, fostering a culture of continuous learning in Singapore's workforce.
