Forum: ​Let’s take charge of careers and upskill, instead of relying on aid

The news that the Singapore Government will be providing financial support to people who lose their jobs involuntarily brings a sense of relief (NDR 2024: Up to $6,000 in financial support over maximum of 6 months for those who lose jobs, Aug 19).

Among those I have coached over the past two decades, many were unprepared for the day they might lose their job. “I never imagined that it will happen to me,” is a common refrain. They did not attend courses to upskill and found themselves squeezed out of the job market as their skills were no longer relevant.

The financial support of up to six months and up to $6,000 is a welcome move. But let’s not fall into the trap of having this scheme in place for a prolonged period of time, or worse, as a permanent benefit. For years, we have resisted this approach as we do not want to go the way of countries where people are comfortable remaining unemployed because of government handouts.
 

First, we need to adopt a mindset where we don’t want to be in the position of applying for support as a first resort. Next, we need to manage our careers. Compared with a decade ago, resources to upgrade or learn new skills are aplenty. We just need to search online for the opportunities and make use of them.

The key is to take charge of our careers and prepare. It needs to be a two-pronged approach: self-care and government support when the need arises. We need to continue to build upon our image as a self-reliant people.

Paul Heng