Debate on President’s Address: Jessica Tan on continuous education and support for families

As technology rapidly evolves and plays a bigger role in work and everyday life, learning how to use it, along with the potential benefits and risks, is essential for young Singaporeans, said MP Jessica Tan in Parliament on Tuesday (Apr 18). She said technology skills need to be part of the core curriculum in schools. At the same time, students have to build up their problem-solving abilities, creativity, collaborative and communication skills so that they have the confidence to seize opportunities in Singapore and abroad, in school and in the future. Ms Tan also said with people living longer, there is a diverse workforce to be tapped and Singapore has to rethink the structure of work to make learning and training systemic for workers at all ages and stages of life. She urged businesses and society to recognise the skills and experiences of workers of all ages and qualifications. Ms Tan also spoke about creating a society that better values and supports families. She gave the example of a middle-income couple in their 60s living in private property, and taking care of a sibling with disabilities and an aged mother. They do not qualify for any relief because of their housing type. Ms Tan appealed to the Government to review the criteria for support for eldercare and intermediate and long-term care.