Debate on President’s Address: Gan Siow Huang on continuous learning, upskilling and reskilling as ‘a way of life’

The Government will work with industry partners and training providers to offer courses to meet different training needs, encourage employers to support the development of their workers and recognise the skills that the workers have acquired, said Minister of State for Education and Manpower Gan Siow Huang. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Apr 18), she stressed the need to make continuous learning, upskilling and reskilling “a way of life” and for individuals to take ownership of their lifelong learning journey. Referring to MP Patrick Tay’s analogy of a Continuing Education and Training toolbox, she highlighted ways to ensure that this toolbox will work well. Firstly, the toolbox must have a wide range of tools to cater to different adult learners with very different training needs. Some require skills top-up for roles that their jobs require. For these learners, short courses are needed. Secondly, people need to open the toolbox and know how to use it. Ms Gan said SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) is enhancing its portal to improve user experience and provide personalised course recommendations, based on the individual’s career and skills needs. It also has a team of ambassadors on the ground to provide advice to Singaporeans who want to learn more about the courses and programmes available. SSG is working with the trade associations and chambers, as well as professional bodies, to recognise the skills attained through its courses.