By Ramesh Subbaraman
How many times in a year can you make use of the SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) for courses? And do the 10,000 courses on the SkillsFuture website? help enhance one’s employability? These were just some questions on the minds of unionists at various dialogue sessions prior to the launch of the SkillsFuture Credit. We got WDA to address some of them here.
If the $500 SFC is insufficient for the course I would like to take, what can I do to get more help to fund/finance my course?
Many courses are already highly subsidised by the Government to ensure that training costs are affordable. The credit can be used on top of existing course fee subsidies provided by the Government. The Government will make periodic top-ups to Singaporeans’ SkillsFuture Credit Accounts.
How many times in a year can I tap on the credit if there is a balance left after I use it for the first course of study?
There is no restriction as to the number of times an individual can tap on the $500 credit for their training needs, as long as the course start dates differ, and that he or she still has a credit balance.
How often will the $500 be topped up? Is it dependent on Budget surpluses?
The Government will make periodic top-ups to Singaporeans’ SkillsFuture Credit accounts. No decisions have been made on the timing and quantum of the next top up.
How relevant are the 10,000 courses to our employability for the future?
Technology and globalisation are changing the nature of jobs in the future. It is important for Singaporeans to upgrade their skills to stay relevant and meet the evolving needs of the economy. We want to support Singaporeans in bridging skills gaps, broaden and deepen skills, and help them to advance in their careers. WDA will continue to work with the Government agencies and training providers to expand the suite of courses approved for the SkillsFuture Credit.
Will the courses on the list mean progression at the workplace for me?
It is important for individuals to plan their lifelong learning and career pathway and ensure that there is opportunity for them to grow in a particular field. The SkillsFuture Credit is aimed at helping Singaporeans in their learning and skills development, and is in line with the Government’s commitment to provide support for Singaporeans to maximise their potential throughout life, and secure good jobs.
To find out more about SkillsFuture credits, courses and the application process, visit: www.skillsfuture.sg/credit.
