ESR proposes “career bridges” and early support for retrenched workers

Plan outlines faster assistance and structured pathways for disrupted workers.

Singapore’s Economic Strategy Review (ESR) has proposed “career bridges” to help workers in roles at risk of disruption move into new jobs, along with earlier support for workers affected by retrenchment, according to its final report released 13 May.

The recommendations are part of eight broad policy areas aimed at helping Singapore adjust to long-term changes in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), slower labour force growth, and a more uncertain global environment.

The ESR said job changes are likely to become more common as companies use AI and automation to increase output with fewer workers. It proposed “career bridges” that link workers in at-risk jobs to other roles, supported by training, career advice, and job-matching help.

It also recommended starting retrenchment support earlier. This includes encouraging companies to give advance notice and speeding up reporting requirements, so workers can receive counselling, skills assessment, and job-matching support before they leave their jobs.

On manpower policy, the review said Singapore should continue to stay open to foreign talent whilst building stronger skills amongst local workers in growth sectors through training, mentoring and career development.

It added that professionals, managers, and executives may take longer to find new jobs, even if they are not eligible for current income support schemes. It suggested reviewing the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme to widen coverage.

On training, the ESR called for more lifelong learning through shorter, modular courses that workers can stack over time, as well as more programmes that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training.

It also pointed to future skills needs including AI knowledge, job-specific technical skills, and human abilities such as communication and critical thinking, along with more international exposure.

The review said these measures are meant to help workers adjust to an economy where technology is changing job roles and making career transitions more frequent.