NTUC urges companies to provide equal access to training and adapt jobs to be age-inclusive.
The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has emphasized the need for companies to offer equal and protected training opportunities for older workers, along with implementing age-universal job redesigns. This call comes after NTUC deputy secretary-general Heng Chee How highlighted a significant shortfall in training and skills-building participation for older workers, which impacts their capacity to stay competitive in the workforce.
According to a 2022 NTUC survey, 92% of workers aged 55 and above expressed interest in pursuing training. However, 63% of respondents felt that older workers had fewer opportunities compared to younger employees. The training participation rates also showed a decline with age: only 58% of those aged 55 and above attended training in the last 12 months, compared to 71% of those aged 25 to 34.
Heng noted that a mismatch between job skills and the capabilities of older workers results in losses for both workers and companies, as outdated skills hinder competitiveness. NTUC recommended that employers implement the union’s Company Training Committees (CTCs) to address these issues by ensuring older workers have access to relevant training.
The union also advocated for job redesigns that cater to older workers’ needs, stressing that companies should utilize support from government programs for consultancy and subsidies. Additionally, NTUC highlighted the importance of improving retirement adequacy, particularly for lower-income older workers, by enabling them to extend their working years and increase their earnings.
