SINGAPORE: Professionals, managers and executives (PMEs) have to
be given the support to equip and deepen their competencies for
career development, said Mr Patrick Tay, Member of Parliament for
Nee Soon GRC.Â
Speaking in Parliament on Monday (May 26), Mr Tay suggested a
three-pronged approach for employers to build the competencies of
the Singaporean PME workforce.
First, PMEs must be prepared to make a mental shift, and spend
time cultivating a second skill.
"I cannot emphasise more the need for attitudinal changes to
focus less on paper qualifications and greater mapping and
development of each individual’s abilities, skills and aptitudes
according to the various industries and attainable levels they are
in," he said.
Second, the system and training regime instituted by the
government have to support the aspirations of these
individuals.
To do this, Mr Tay suggested expanding the Workforce Skills
Qualifications to include an even greater focus on PMEs, rather
than just focusing on rank-and-file or mid-level technical
staff.
He added that there should also be greater accessiblity to the
lifelong learning fund by individual PMEs assisted or guided by a
career coach from a Continuing Education and Training Centre.
Mr Tay also said the Government should promote second skilling
and provide incentives for employers who allow their employees to
to pursue a second skill during thier working hours.
Third, a paradigm shift is needed on the part of the employers.
"Employers should understand that further increase in productivity
with a tightened foreign manpower supply is only possible when
their local employees are upgraded in their skills and abilities,"
he said.
- CNA/xy
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