extracted from CNA online.
By Julia Ng, Channel NewsAsia
The government has come up with a new framework to help workers stay employable through lifelong learning and to make training count for both workers and employers.
The Workforce Development Agency unveiled the national skills and qualifications system on Thursday.
Called the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) system, it was launched by Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen.
Over the next three years, Singapore will commit $100 million to build up the WSQ system.
The WSQ acts as a national stamp of approval of workers' qualifications.
It spells out industry-specific training and certification for workers.
Developed with inputs from industry, WSQ programmes are tailored-made for practical job needs.
Workers can be assured the qualifications are nationally-endorsed and recognised by employers and governmental organisations.
The WSQ will benefit every worker, including those without academic qualifications.
This is because it recognises past training, work experience and current credentials, on top of academic qualifications.
Ong Ye Kung, chief executive of Workforce Development Agency, said: "WSQ's important principle is it's open and accessible. So you may not have formal 'N', 'O' or 'A' level, but we'll recognise your prior learning, prior experience in the craft, in the job that you've been in. We'll map you onto the WSQ, based on your competency, and from there you have a mountain to climb!"
The first to benefit from the WSQ are workers from the retail, training and finance sectors.
And in two years' time, the WSQ will be extended to other industries including tourism, hotel and accommodation services, food and beverage, information and communication technology, precision engineering, community and social services.
Minister Ng said: "This (WSQ) system will increase the value and recognition of new skills and qualifications that workers obtain through their upgrading efforts.
"At the National Rally Speech this year, the Prime Minister described his vision for Singapore, where there is a mountain range of successes in our society. This is what we hope to contribute towards with the WSQ system.
"We are opening up new pathways, new opportunities and multiple chances for workers to scale their own mountain range. With proper qualifications, and good training institutions backing them, and the jobs that are available now, we want to instil a greater sense of pride, professionalism and help them progress in their occupations." - CNA/ir
