Economic tensions between countries have become a frequent feature of today’s global economy, as seen in the US-China trade conflict. While Singapore’s economy has remained resilient despite these challenges, we must be prepared to deal with future uncertainties. How do we stay on our feet, should the global economy continue to slow? Well, upgrading our skillset enhances our value-add to employers and may serve as a strategic means of recession-proofing our careers. PMETs keen on reskilling and retraining can consider Professional Conversion Programmes (PCP) or the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy. For those aged 40 and above, these schemes subsidise up to 90% of fees for applicable courses.

The PCPs target PMETs, including mid-career switchers, to undergo skills conversion and move into new occupations or growth sectors with good prospects and opportunities for progression.  The duration of PCPs typically ranges from three to 24 months. Through Place-and-Train PCPs, you will be hired by a participating employer before undergoing training to take on a new role. For Attach-and-Train PCPs, industry partners provide you with training and work attachments, in advance of job placement. Both open up avenues to switch to growth industries by developing the skills in demand by such sectors. 

To support and encourage lifelong learning, the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy lowers the fees for courses supported by SkillsFuture Singapore. These courses have different levels of certification, and subsidies vary accordingly. By providing accessible and flexible opportunities for lifelong learning, these courses enable you to equip yourself with the skills required to cope with the changing demands of the workplace.