Since the introduction of the SkillsFuture initiative, much of the discussion has centered on graduates and young professionals, and the impact of SkillsFuture on this segment. This is, of course, to be desired, because one of the stated aims of SkillsFuture is to arm the youth with the skills necessary to be competitive in the global market.
However, what sometimes gets lost in the conversation, are the benefits SkillsFuture holds for mid-career professionals.
A higher subsidy, to offset a difficult challenge
Singaporeans who are 40 years old and above can take advantage of the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy to upskill themselves to meet and exceed the expectations of their changing workspace. They can even take courses to gain completely new skills and change careers, even at later stages in life.
Singaporeans who are eligible for the programme receive subsidies of as much as 90% of course fees - higher than the baseline 70%.
Training to meet the challenges of a digital world
The SkillsFuture for Digital Workplace programme is a series of short, 18-hour programme with long-term benefits for those who need a little bit of help to adjust to a digitised professional environment. It arms participants with basic knowledge and information about the changes caused by digitisation in their industry, and how they can face these challenges
Career Advice and Guidance
Being a mid-career professional contemplating a change can be difficult, even scary. At this stage, the right advice and guidance make a world of difference to our confidence. SkillsFuture programmes like Education and Career Guidance (ECG) and the SkillsFuture Career Advisors Programme provide this much needed guidance from coaches and instructors as well as industry professionals to help mid-career professionals take more informed, confident decisions.
Awards and Recognitions
The SkillsFuture programme is not just about helping Singaporeans upskill and reskill. It’s also about rewarding those who have shown exceptional proficiency and growth. Thus, the SkillsFuture Fellowship, the SkillsFuture Study Award and SkillsFuture Qualification Award have been established to reward mid-career professionals, among others, who show dedication and drive towards lifelong learning and upskilling, as well as advocating these qualities.
Upskilling can be a difficult process post 40. Changing careers even more so. There are family commitments, job responsibilities and often, parenting duties as well. At SP PACE, there are a bouquet of courses under the SkillsFuture banner to make this process easier for mid-career professionals. This includes part-time courses and short courses that you can attend without significant time commitment. Courses offered in a variety of categories, and added every day, so remember to check our SkillsFuture page for details. Happy Learning!