Photos by YDU and Jonathan Tan
Do we see technology as a challenge or as an opportunity and an advantage?
This was a question posed by NTUC Secretary-General (SG) Ng Chee Meng to the 500 youth participants at the Learning is Triggered (LIT) Xchange conference on 10 July 2018 at the Suntec Convention Centre.
A collaboration between Young NTUC and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), the LIT Xchange marks the first of a series of seven LIT learning events targeted at giving youths a taste of the opportunities and learning resources available to them. Examples of these events include learning journeys to companies like Microsoft, IMB and Grab, career mentorship and professional workshops.
“Such programmes will keep young Singaporeans apprised on industry trends and skills needed to keep up with the evolving economy and changing needs of the workforce,” said SG Ng, as he described how the youths of today are entering the workforce at a time of technological disruption and digital transformation.
“We take the future of our youths very seriously. This is the reason why we are always encouraging our youths to continuously learn new skills and upskill to prepare them for the future workplace and future economy,” added SG Ng.
Young NTUC’s Youth Career Network mentorship programmes and Todo Todo career support initiative with the People’s Association (PA) are some of programmes that the Labour Movement is widening and deepening in order to reach out to youth.
Seizing Opportunities
Highlights of the conference included networking with more than 60 volunteer career guides from Young NTUC’s Youth Career network. Speakers from IBM Singapore, VISA and VizSense also took the stage to share their experience and perspectives on industry trends and career opportunities beyond Singapore.
Elaborating on the need to embrace the zest for learning, Guest-of-Honour President Halimah Yacob said:
“I urge our young Singaporeans to seize these new opportunities. To do that, we must ensure that we are adequately skilled for the future economy. Our strong economic position and education system have given us a headstart, but we must not be complacent. We need to constantly upskill ourselves to stay relevant and competitive. We must be flexible and adventurous, and be willing to learn and venture beyond our shores.”
Commenting on the upcoming LIT series of programmes between now and August, Young NTUC Executive Secretary Desmond Choo said: “With the fluidity of the global marketplace, many of our youths today do not only have to confine themselves within the Singapore job market. They are also able to venture globally to find their path in the world. Through these learning journeys, workshops and networking sessions, we hope that they can glean industry insights and pick up skills that can help progress their career.”
Click here to find out more about the upcoming LIT series of events.
