Digital demand doubles as AI replaces foundational work tasks

Nearly a quarter of tasks can be significantly aided by the application of AI.

Demand for AI-related capabilities has more than doubled across sectors from 2022 to 2025, according to Skills Future Singapore.

Capabilities such as AI Principles and Applications, Model Evaluation, and Responsible AI Practices are expanding rapidly, signalling a shift in digital roles, from traditional IT maintenance to AI‑driven applications

The announcement comes following SSG’s study of trends at the work task level to gain more insights and two pilot studies to understand the AI potential on jobs and work tasks.

In the first pilot study, it was revealed that 24% of tasks can be significantly aided by the application of AI. SSG said this presents opportunities to improve work productivity across many industries through the adoption of AI tools.

SSG plans to equip individuals with the skills to use AI well for these tasks. At the same time, the study also found a wide range of tasks that are far less automatable and more enduring, where decision-making, self-management, and learning agility will become more valued as processes get automated.

SSG has also identified what skills are needed for entry-level jobs, following findings in a pilot study conducted to understand the AI potential on jobs and work tasks.

Building on the first study, the follow-up pilot examined six sectors—Accountancy, Built Environment, Financial Services, Infocomm Technology, Retail, and Tourism—to analyse how skills are developed over time and identify the dominant skill types for entry-level roles, grouping them into three archetypes: Mastery Builders, Analytical Specialists, and Human Connectors.

Mastery Builders, e.g. Accounting Executive, are roles with Progressive Mastery learning pathway where expertise deepens progressively over time. As AI automates foundational tasks, entry-level workers may face limited opportunities to learn and master foundational skills that are essential for career progression.

Analytical Specialists, e.g. E-Commerce Associate, have more front-loaded learning and rely heavily on analytical skills. Front-loaded learning involves acquiring most of the skills and knowledge early in one’s career, with learning becoming more incremental later. As AI increasingly supports analysis, greater emphasis is placed on judgment and interpretation.

Meanwhile, Human Connectors, e.g. Customer Service Executive, are roles where interpersonal skills are essential. While AI can streamline routine tasks, human interaction and relationship-building remain critical.

SSG said that critical core skills such as problem-solving, collaboration and communication remain essential for workers to navigate and integrate new technologies effectively.

These skills are said to be even more important in the age of AI as they complement AI’s technical capabilities, ensuring that AI tools are used meaningfully and remain relevant to real-world industry needs.