SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and Workforce Singapore (WSG) are statutory boards under the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Manpower respectively, they work together to transform Singapore’s workforce by developing Singaporeans’ employability and competitiveness. They do so by promoting lifelong learning and career resilience by creating pathways for upskilling, skills mastery, and self-improvement. Supporting the government’s efforts to bolster the Singaporean core are scholars Yap Li Sing, Daphne and Soh Xin Yi.

Daphne currently works as Manager in the Enterprise Programmes Division at WSG and possesses a Bachelor of Business Management degree. Xin Yi is a Manager at the Public Engagement Division at SSG and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Accountancy) with Honours (Distinction) from NUS. We hear from them about their rewarding career experiences.

What inspired you to pursue this career and why are you passionate about this?

Xin Yi: While studying at NUS, I was really amazed by my professors, who were immensely knowledgeable about a broad range of topics beyond their area of specialisation. Their passion for learning and joy in sharing their knowledge inspired me, and I aspire to share this passion for lifelong learning with others.

Daphne: My mother often mentions how Singapore has changed and that we should be grateful for what we have. She hoped that I would have the chance to play a part in developing the future of Singapore and pursue a career that helps improve people’s lives. The pandemic affected the businesses and careers of my loved ones, making me realise that there is a lack of awareness on the importance of Job Redesign (JR). I am inspired to let more Singaporeans learn how JR can help businesses improve their manpower capabilities and work processes.

To pursue your passions and careers, you took up an SSG-WSG Joint Undergraduate Scholarship. Can you share why you chose this scholarship and how it has benefited you?

Xin Yi: After learning more about the scholarship through BrightSparks, I applied for it as job rotations in both agencies provided opportunities to explore a broad spectrum of work, allowing me to hone different skill sets. In addition, the scholarship stood out to me as I found it meaningful to be part of SSG’s and WSG’s efforts in empowering Singaporeans on their upskilling and employability journey.

Beyond academics, I felt that the scholarship enhanced my university experience. The assurance that my school and hostel fees were financially taken care of meant that I had the freedom to pursue opportunities to hone and develop skills I wanted instead of being pressured to work part-time for an income. This also meant that I could focus on my studies completely.

Daphne: The SSG-WSG Scholarship helped me build my vision and geared me up for my future. I also resonated with many values that other scholars had. Growing up, I noticed how my father had fewer educational opportunities which made it harder for him to learn new skills, skills that could potentially help him manage his business better. Therefore, I am motivated to help businesses like my father’s to tap on WSG’s programmes and initiatives to widen his hiring pool and to improve his business through JR.

Could you briefly describe your roles?

Xin Yi: As a Manager in SSG’s Public Engagement Division, I respond to the public’s appeals and questions as part of customer relationship management. I also manage accounts under the Learning Subscription Pilot, which allows individuals to attend an array of courses offered by Gnowbe, LHUB and ZilLearn through an annual subscription paid to each platform provider.

Daphne: I am a Manager at the Job Redesign Centre of Excellence under the Enterprise Programmes Division at WSG. Some of my responsibilities include engaging with different stakeholders, managing programme funds and institutional grants, as well as promoting the JR Project.

What are the positives of working at SSG-WSG as well as the career opportunities available?

Xin Yi: There are ample opportunities for growth across SSG’s various divisions and groups, so there will be a role that interests you. Working here, you can look forward to rotations across SSG’s (as well as WSG’s) various groups and divisions, as well as secondments to ministries and statutory boards that work closely with SSG.

Also, everyone here is very friendly and welcoming! SSG’s goals of promoting lifelong learning are meaningful, and the work here is dynamic, fast-paced and never boring!

Daphne: There are boundless possibilities and opportunities working at WSG. You get to meet people from different walks of life and gain valuable insights from them. For instance, my bosses and colleagues come from different government sectors, so when I work with them, I am constantly exposed to new working styles, knowledge and values.

I would say that working at WSG has widened my horizons. In just three months, I have attended courses and multiple bonding sessions, learnt a plethora of new skills, and am currently building my foundation of government practices. If you seek an organisation that provides exposure and interesting projects that adds value to our society, then WSG is the place for you!