Debate on President’s Address: Alvin Tan on navigating the future with youths

Singapore must provide a conducive and enabling environment for its youths to learn, grow and thrive, said Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth Alvin Tan. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday (Apr 20), he stressed the need for them to create, innovate, fail, learn and try again. He said the ministry has outlined the Government’s plans to continue to build such an environment for youths and Singaporeans. These include mentoring them and tackling their concerns on social mobility and bread-and-butter issues by creating jobs and career opportunities and ensuring that they have the skills to take on these opportunities. But they must play their part, said Mr Tan. He pointed out that many of Singapore’s youths have been leading and taking action on social issues that are crucial for nation-building. They are also preparing for, seizing and even creating job opportunities to secure their future. “There is cause for optimism,” he said. Mr Tan said as youths navigate the rough waters, the Government will “brave these storms together with them”. He urged them to “turn up” and be present to connect with others. They must also be prepared to take on jobs and create new ones in the growing ecosystem, and persevere in creating value and staying relevant, he added.