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Enabling lifelong learning
The announcement to transform institutes of higher learning (IHLs) into institutes for continual learning sends a strong signal on the importance of lifelong learning. To help fulfill their ambition of providing continual learning, we look forward to details on how their programming can be more agile and aligned to emerging global and digital trends as well as incorporate industry-leading practices into learning and training pedagogies.
Similarly, there is an opportunity to flesh out how IHLs can work synergistically with the SkillsFuture Queen Bees — industry-leading enterprises that take on a lead role to champion skills development in organizations — to achieve a continuum in translating academic learning into industry practice.
While IHLs and employers have key roles to play in workforce transformation, individuals need to take charge of their own skills development and employability too. Enhancements to current platforms to allow individuals to manage their skills and career will also be useful. For example, the SkillsFuture program can be strengthened and complemented with a national skills index that individuals can access via the LifeSG app to take stock of learning and career pathways and plan them. The data generated will also offer valuable insights for future national skilling initiatives and interventions.
Finance Minister Lawrence Wong said in Singapore Budget 2022: “We have come this far as a nation because we are always thinking about tomorrow.” Indeed, such forward planning is needed so that Singapore’s workforce remains relevant, resilient and competitive. The wheels are set in motion with the Budget 2022 announcement and the details of implementation are highly anticipated.
This article was first published in The Business Times on 2 March 2022.