Workers Facing Highest Risk of Displacement from Artificial Intelligence and Reskilling Programmes Available
Ministry of Home AffairsSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns MP Gerald Giam Yean Song’s inquiry into worker categories facing displacement risks from artificial intelligence (AI), projected numbers of affected workers, and reskilling programs for career switches. Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo stated that while AI's impact is not fully predictable, the government uses Jobs Transformation Maps to help employers and workers prepare for future roles. She highlighted that upskilling is supported through SkillsFuture, Workforce Singapore’s career conversion programs, and IMDA’s TechSkills Accelerator for those moving into specific AI tech roles. The Minister noted that Singapore’s skilled workforce is well-placed to leverage AI opportunities, similar to previous technological waves, by utilizing existing national frameworks. Finally, she affirmed that the government and its tripartite partners will continue providing support to ensure workers remain adaptable and competitive in an AI-influenced economy.
Transcript
48 Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Communications and Information (a) which categories of workers has the Ministry assessed to face the highest risk of displacement as a result of artificial intelligence (AI); (b) what are the projected numbers for each such category; and (c) what expanded programmes are being instituted to scale up reskilling and encourage workers to switch careers before they face job displacement due to AI.
Mrs Josephine Teo: Artificial intelligence (AI) development is changing every day and its impact on the workforce is not fully predictable. As with other technologies, the Government's consistent approach has been to maximise the potential of our businesses and workers to harness AI as an opportunity, through supporting their efforts to adapt. This has helped our economy to expand and our workers to enjoy improved employment outcomes.
In particular, Jobs Transformation Maps specific to sectors, will help employers and workers understand and prepare themselves for the future of work that is influenced by AI. Through SkillsFuture courses as well as Workforce Singapore's job redesign and career conversion programmes, workers can upskill and reskill to work in roles that may be transformed by AI.
For those who wish to transit to AI tech roles, IMDA's TechSkills Accelerator supports fresh and mid-career workers to be equipped with relevant skills. Singapore's educated and skilled population is well-placed to take advantage of AI, as we have done so in previous waves of technological change. The Government will continue to work with our tripartite partners to support our workforce.