Welcome to the first part of our two-part series on Singapore’s SkillsFuture initiative. In this article, we’ll explore how different generations, from Baby Boomers to Generation Alpha, can leverage SkillsFuture to stay relevant and competitive in today’s evolving economy. As Singapore continues to invest in lifelong learning, understanding how each generation can optimise these opportunities is crucial for personal and professional growth.

With new schemes and enhancements such as the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme, there’s a wealth of support for Singaporeans to deepen their skills or transition to new sectors. Whether you’re at the beginning of your career or looking to upskill mid-career, this article will outline key programmes and strategies tailored to your needs, along with statistics and data to illustrate why upskilling is vital.

Why Upskilling is Critical

The global economy is undergoing rapid transformation due to advancements in technology and changing industry demands. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2020, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025 to adapt to technological advancements and new ways of working. This is where Singapore’s SkillsFuture initiative plays a pivotal role, helping citizens prepare for these changes and stay competitive.

 

How Each Generation Can Leverage SkillsFuture

Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964)

For Baby Boomers, staying relevant in an increasingly digital world is key. Many choose to continue working in part-time or consultancy roles post-retirement. SkillsFuture offers various programmes to help older workers enhance their digital skills and stay active in the workforce.

Key Programmes:

• National Silver Academy (NSA): Provides subsidised courses tailored to older Singaporeans in areas like technology, the arts, and personal development.
• SkillsFuture Credit: Can be used to take up courses in areas like digital literacy and workplace adaptability.

Recommended Courses:

• Workplace literacy and numeracy.
• Basic digital skills such as Microsoft Office or using social media for business.

Example: Mrs. Tan, 68, enrolled in a cybersecurity awareness course to better understand online safety while working part-time as a consultant.

Generation X (Born 1965–1980)

Gen X is currently at the peak of their careers and often faces increased competition from younger, tech-savvy generations. Upskilling helps them maintain their edge and lead digital transformation initiatives.

Key Programmes:

• Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy: Covers up to 90% of course fees for Singaporeans aged 40 and above.
• SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP): Supports mid-career transitions into new sectors or job roles.

Recommended Courses:

• Leadership and management development.
• Project management and change management certifications.

Example: Mr. Lim, 50, transitioned from a finance role to digital marketing through the SCTP, enabling him to lead his company’s digital strategy.

Generation Y (Millennials, Born 1981–1996)

Millennials value career mobility and are often open to exploring new roles and sectors. SkillsFuture’s flexibility allows them to acquire the skills they need to pivot careers or advance to leadership positions.

Key Programmes:

• SkillsFuture Credit: Allows millennials to take a variety of courses, including short courses and industry certifications.
• SkillsFuture Work-Study Programme: Provides opportunities to gain work experience while studying.

Recommended Courses:

• Data analytics and digital marketing.
• Design thinking and entrepreneurship.

Example: Ms. Lee, 35, completed a part-time diploma in UX design through SkillsFuture, which helped her shift from traditional marketing to a product design role in tech.

Generation Z (Born 1997–2009)

Gen Z is just entering the workforce and can benefit from courses that provide foundational skills and industry exposure.

Key Programmes:

• SkillsFuture Work-Study Programme: Offers practical work experience in parallel with academic study.
• SkillsFuture Credit: Allows them to build employable skills even before entering the workforce.

Recommended Courses:

• Digital skills, such as coding and programming.
• Business communication and presentation skills.

Example: Mr. Wong, 23, used his SkillsFuture Credit to learn Python programming, giving him a competitive advantage when applying for tech internships.

Generation Alpha (Born 2010–2025)

While Generation Alpha is not yet eligible for SkillsFuture programmes, their parents can leverage SkillsFuture courses to create a conducive learning environment at home.

 

The Impact of Upskilling: Key Statistics

• 50% of jobs will require reskilling by 2025: According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2020, nearly half of all employees will need new skills due to changes in the job market.
• Mid-career support is essential: A 2023 SkillsFuture report highlighted that mid-career Singaporeans face higher rates of job displacement and have more difficulty re-entering the workforce.
• Government commitment: The Singapore government has committed over $1 billion annually to support skills upgrading, making it one of the highest per capita investments in lifelong learning globally.

 

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References:

World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2020

SkillsFuture Singapore - Skills Demand for the Future Economy Report

Ministry of Manpower Labour Market Report 2023

https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/level-up-programme

https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/initiatives/mid-career/credit

https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/career-resources/career-resources/education-career-personal-development/SkillsFuture_Level-Up_Programme.html

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/skillsfuture-credit-top-up-of-4000-for-mid-career-workers-offsets-bulk-of-diploma-course-fees

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/earlier-skillsfuture-credit-top-up-for-those-aged-40-to-60-will-no-longer-expire-in-end-2025

https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/careertransition

https://supportgowhere.life.gov.sg/schemes/SF-MID-CAREER-TA/skillsfuture-mid-career-training-allowance