Insights + interviews
Launch Of SkillsFuture@PA Initiative
SkillsFuture@PA is set to fulfill the lifelong learning needs and aspirations of Singaporeans.
Since January 2016, Singaporeans aged 25-years-old and above have been able to sign up for more than 45 different work skills and self-development courses across 15 Community Clubs (CCs) island wide. To date, there are about 1,000 sign-ups and more than 200 classes have been opened for registration. For active agers who are 50-years-old and above, the course fees are heavily subsidised from as low as S$10 each, for some courses.
The SkillsFuture@PA initiative was officially launched on Saturday, 30 January 2016 at Bedok Community Centre, to raise awareness on the courses among residents, particularly among active agers. Through a talk by the Workforce Development Agency (WDA), residents had a better understanding on the usage of their S$500 SkillsFuture Credit. They also heard from three course participants how attending courses at CCs helped them keep their minds active, earn pocket money and stay socially connected.
Residents also experienced a sampler version of some of the SkillsFuture@PA courses such as Tea Appreciation, Basic Massage for Babies and Mobile Social Media at the SkillsFuture@PA Marketplace, where they could register immediately on the spot.
Mdm Phua Ah Moy, 66, is a perfect example of lifelong learning. She is happy that she can use her SkillsFuture credit to pay for the classes she intends to take. She said, “I want to learn how to do a proper massage, so I can help others who are suffering from aches.” She also expressed an interest in cooking lessons and smartphone usage. “It encourages older folks (to get) out of their homes. Don’t give an excuse that you’re old and can’t learn anything anymore. You can learn anything,” she added.
To check out SkillsFuture@PA courses, please visit one.pa.gov.sg and search for ‘SkillsFuture@PA’.
