SINGAPORE: A new human resource (HR) continuing education and training centre has been launched by Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong.

The Human Capital Centre (HCC) aims to train HR managers, as well as professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) planning a career change as HR professionals.

The HCC will focus on HR Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) courses. It will offer 63 modules which can be accumulated to attain certificates and diplomas.

The centre will also have several important roles.

Mr Gan said: "It will develop and deliver the full suite of courses under the HR WSQ framework. Existing HR practitioners can look forward to a range of courses and programmes to hone their skills and enhance their knowledge."

Besides offering courses, the centre will facilitate discussion of key HR issues.

Mr Gan said: "It will organise dialogue forums such as communities of practice and priority conversations on current and emerging HR issues. These forums will serve as useful platforms for the HR community and business leaders to network."

The HCC will also actively support research and development in HR related areas, which will further enhance the competencies of HR professionals.

President of the Singapore Human Resources Institute, Ho Geok Choo, said: "We want to be able to continue to level-up human capital practices and research in Singapore so that our people will benefit from it. And in doing that, we also hope to become the HR icon not just in Singapore but in Asia."

The centre will also offer career counselling and job placement services.

It aims to deliver 4,500 training places over the next three years.

The institute also held a walk to mark its first HR Day, which will be celebrated on March 1 every year.

- CNA/yt