Stronger school-industry ties and career planning key in adapting to workforce shifts
Singapore’s labour market remains stable, but proactive measures are necessary to address skills mismatches, said Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) president Robert Yap on April 28, 2024. Despite a tight labour market, retrenchments increased significantly from 6,440 in 2022 to 14,590 in 2023, mainly due to business transformation.
Dr. Yap identified two major trends influencing the workforce: employees are working longer, and skills are becoming obsolete more quickly. To counter these challenges, he proposed a three-pronged approach focusing on stronger school-industry partnerships, improved career planning, and a deeper appreciation of skills.
Closer collaboration between schools and industries can bridge the gap between academic learning and employer expectations. With job requirements evolving rapidly, many skills acquired during education may become outdated by the time students enter the workforce. To address this, SNEF has partnered with educational institutions to enhance internships and provide real-world work experiences.
Additionally, structured career planning is crucial for mid-career employees. SNEF encourages employers to engage workers in career discussions, helping them navigate workplace transformations and changing aspirations. Identifying skills gaps and offering relevant training can ensure employees remain employable or transition into new roles.
Dr. Yap also emphasized that career growth is not solely about advancing to managerial roles but also about skill mastery. Employers should create pathways to recognize and reward workers who achieve technical expertise. Society, in turn, should value vocational and technical skills as critical components of business operations and daily life.
With an increasingly dynamic economy, acquiring the right skills is one of the best ways for workers to maintain employment and career growth. SNEF remains committed to working alongside tripartite partners to promote a culture of lifelong learning that benefits both employers and employees.
