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