SINGAPORE: Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore’s labor market has been greatly affected, leading to job losses and difficulties in job hunting for many locals. In response to this, the government has announced a series of initiatives to help Singaporean workers find employment and enhance their employability. The initiatives include wage subsidies, training programs, and career matching services.
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), there were around 72,000 unemployed residents in June 2022, which is a significant increase compared to the pre-pandemic level of around 40,000. The unemployment rate has also risen to 2.1%, the highest it has been in more than a decade.
The government has recognized the challenges faced by Singaporean workers in finding jobs, and has implemented various measures to support them. One of the most significant initiatives is the Jobs Growth Incentive (JGI) scheme, which provides wage subsidies to employers who hire local workers. The JGI scheme has been extended until March 2023, and the government has also increased the subsidy rates for certain sectors.
In addition to wage subsidies, the government has also introduced several training programs to help Singaporean workers upgrade their skills and become more employable. These programs include the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES), which provides subsidies for workers aged 40 and above to attend training courses. The government has also launched the SGUnited Skills program, which offers free training courses in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, infocomm technology, and logistics.
Apart from wage subsidies and training programs, the government has also set up career matching services to connect job seekers with potential employers. These services include the MyCareersFuture portal, which allows job seekers to search for job openings and receive personalized job recommendations. The government has also partnered with various employers to organize job fairs and recruitment drives.
Despite the government’s efforts, the job market in Singapore remains challenging, and many Singaporean workers are still struggling to find jobs. However, the government’s initiatives are expected to provide some relief and support to those who are affected by the pandemic. By providing wage subsidies, training programs, and career matching services, the government aims to help Singaporean workers find employment and enhance their employability in the long run..
