Trend of Graduate Underemployment in Singapore
Ministry of ManpowerSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Ms Foo Mee Har’s inquiry regarding graduate underemployment trends and government interventions facilitating optimal job deployment for degree holders in Singapore. Minister Mrs Josephine Teo stated that time-related underemployment among resident degree holders has remained stable at approximately 2% over the last decade. She explained that autonomous universities collaborate with industries to ensure course relevance while providing career guidance and preparatory workshops for students and alumni. Minister Mrs Josephine Teo also highlighted the MySkillsFuture and MyCareersFuture portals, SkillsFuture initiatives, and Adapt and Grow programs like Professional Conversion Programmes. Finally, jobseekers can access personalized assistance through Workforce Singapore’s Careers Connect or the National Trades Union Congress’ Employment and Employability Institute.
Transcript
58 Ms Foo Mee Har asked the Minister for Manpower what is the trend of graduate underemployment in Singapore and what Government interventions are in place to facilitate optimal deployment of degree holders to relevant jobs.
Mrs Josephine Teo: In line with international practice, Singapore tracks time-related underemployment, or the percentage of residents in part-time jobs but willing and able to engage in additional work. Among resident degree holders, such underemployment has remained stable at around 2% over the last decade.
Singapore's autonomous universities (AUs) work closely with industry partners and sector agencies to ensure that course offerings stay relevant to the needs of industry. Increasingly, the curriculum and learning experience are infused with work-learn elements to better prepare students for employment. As a result, our AUs have consistently seen high rates of employment for their graduates.
In addition, AUs provide students with career services, such as career preparatory workshops and modules on resume writing and interview skills. Career guidance offices also continue to offer such support to their alumni. These efforts are complemented by MySkillsFuture portal, a key source of industry information with tools that enhance our students’ knowledge of employment opportunities and progression pathways in various sectors.
Graduates who join the workforce can continue to tap on various SkillsFuture initiatives to acquire new skills and upgrade themselves. They may also take up Adapt and Grow programmes, such as the Professional Conversion Programmes, to move into new jobs or careers. Those looking for relevant job opportunities can use the MyCareersFuture online portal for smarter and faster job search.
Jobseekers who require further assistance in their job search may also approach Workforce Singapore's Careers Connect or the National Trades Union Congress' Employment and Employability Institute career centres for help.