LAUNCH OF SKILLSFUTURE FOR DIGITAL WORKPLACE - Building Confidence in All Singaporeans for the Digital Economy

05/10/2017

LAUNCH OF SKILLSFUTURE FOR DIGITAL WORKPLACE - Building Confidence in All Singaporeans for the Digital Economy

The SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace was launched today by the Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills), Mr Ong Ye Kung.  This new national initiative will equip Singaporeans with basic digital skills required at the workplace and in their daily lives, and cultivate a positive mind-set towards change.   

To better prepare Singaporeans for the digital economy, the SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace is structured as a two-day training programme that introduces critical areas such as cyber security as well as the interpretation and use of data. Through a hands-on, interactive and practical approach, participants will learn how to use common digital applications including e-payments and how to apply for courses that are eligible for SkillsFuture Credit.  Such activities and tasks aim to help participants build digital confidence and adopt a positive mind-set towards change, innovation and resilience.  (Please refer to Annex A for more information on SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace programme.)  

Led by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), the programme has been developed and implemented with strong support from the labour movement, employers, as well as technology partners such as Microsoft, Samsung and Lazada.  It aims to benefit 100,000 Singaporeans over the next three years.  SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace has commenced its pilot run in July this year, and over 330 participants have been trained.  Companies such as Singtel, Maybank, Fei Siong Group, Courts and SIA Engineering Company have found the programme useful and sent their staff for it. 

To meet the needs of different employers and Singaporeans, SSG recognises that a one-size-fits-all approach will not work, and some customisation is necessary.  As a start, SSG has therefore appointed seven training partners to deliver the programme.  Based on a common syllabus, there will be variations of the training programme that are customised to meet the different needs.  By year end, SSG expects to expand the list of training providers to include all the Polytechnics, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and IBM. (Please refer to Annex B for the list of training providers.)

Over 35 companies have committed to send their staff for training within the next 12 months.  The appointed training providers also plan to conduct classes at convenient community-based venues such as community centres and public libraries, in order to reach out to more Singaporeans.

Mr Ng Cher Pong, Chief Executive of SkillsFuture Singapore said, “The digital transformation of the economy brings about new opportunities, and acquiring digital skills is essential for them to tap on these potentials.  We have received good responses to the pilot run of the programme, with strong interest in the programme from the public and employers, as well as support from technology companies that are keen to collaborate on the programme.  Singaporeans will find the skills taught in the classes useful to their daily work and lives.  We will also be holding these courses to the community, in order to make it easier for Singaporeans to participate and benefit from the programme.”

Annex A – Factsheet on SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace
Annex B – List of Training Partners

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