**Singapore**: The Step IT Up programme by Temus aims to address the digital talent shortage by training individuals without IT backgrounds, while government initiatives seek to bolster the ICT workforce to meet the growing demands of the tech industry.
Singapore’s initiative to establish itself as a leading hub for technology and innovation in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is being bolstered by both public and private sector efforts. With a highly educated and adaptable workforce, a stable political and economic landscape, and strong government incentives favouring innovation, Singapore has attracted a considerable number of companies seeking to expand in the region. However, the challenge of filling the talent gap, particularly in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, continues to persist due to constraints on foreign manpower hiring.
A recent article published in The Business Times highlighted that a significant skills gap remains within these emerging sectors, exacerbated by a reported shortage of candidates. In fact, about 25% of tech hiring managers reportedly see the lack of skilled workers as their primary challenge. This problem is most pronounced in Singapore’s most productive sectors including information and communications technology (ICT) and professional services, which is partly linked to the country’s more selective approach regarding foreign labour. Marcus Loh, the director and head of marketing and public affairs at Temus, noted these concerns, emphasising the pressing need for a strategic approach to tackle the barriers to digital advancement within enterprises.
Despite these challenges, Singaporean businesses are actively embracing AI-driven strategies for customer engagement, leveraging data to enhance customer satisfaction, improve market segmentation, and create new sales opportunities. However, a significant portion of business leaders still struggles to utilise data effectively, with 69% revealing that they are not maximising its potential, particularly during inflationary economic periods.
In response to the growing digital talent gap, Temus launched the Step IT Up programme in collaboration with the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) to equip Singaporeans without prior IT backgrounds with the necessary skills to enter the digital workforce. The programme aims to create a pipeline of local talent through a unique ‘hire, place, and train’ model, which guarantees a job upon graduation. This year marks the fourth cohort of the programme, which previously attracted over 800 applications from varied backgrounds, including fresh graduates and those seeking career transitions.
Loh expressed Temus’ commitment to expanding the digital talent pool, asserting that “true digital transformation starts and ends with people.” He added that the organisation is focused on nurturing a stronger homegrown tech workforce, underlining the belief that real investment in talent plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential for digital transformation.
The current iteration of the Step IT Up programme targets training and placing over 20 candidates in low-code development roles, which facilitate the development of digital applications that help enhance operational efficiency. Moreover, Temus has established partnerships with various industries including telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and education, ensuring that their trainees receive effective on-the-job training tied to their future employment opportunities.
The Step IT Up programme is part of a broader government initiative aimed at building a robust ICT workforce through the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA). This initiative collaborates with organisations such as SkillsFuture Singapore, Workforce Singapore, and the National Trades Union Congress, aiming to upgrade the skills of both recent graduates and mid-career professionals.
Loh, drawing from his over 20 years of industry experience, expressed hope for the continued growth and expansion of the Step IT Up programme, stating the potential for broader opportunities for Singaporeans in the evolving digital landscape. He cited the importance of aligning business strategies to meet specific hiring needs and ensuring that both employers and employees can thrive in the increasingly digital economy.
The latest call for applications for the fourth intake of the Step IT Up programme is now open, as Temus seeks to further contribute to building Singapore’s dynamic digital workforce, in alignment with the nation’s ambitions for a smarter future.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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