NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) has announced the launch of training pathways for Self-Employed Persons (SEPs) to acquire new competencies amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. Each pathway provides a specific skill track that guides SEPs to proficiency into roles such as ‘COVID-19 Citizen Defender’, Healthcare Assistant, Java Developer and Security Officer.
“During these times of economic uncertainty, NTUC LearningHub stands with our SEPs. With these training pathways, SEPs, whose livelihoods are affected by the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak, will be able to expand their skill sets and explore other sources of income,” says NTUC LearningHub CEO Kwek Kok Kwong.
“There are a number of sectors which still see healthy demand in this period, such as healthcare and security. We have identified the critical skills and roles in such sectors for anybody looking to transition,” he continued.
The development of these training pathways come on the back of NTUC’s announcement of the new NTUC Training Fund (SEPs), where SEPs will be able to claim an allowance when they go for selected courses offered by NTUC LearningHub and selected other institutions.
In addition to the training pathways that enable SEPs to transition into other sectors, NTUC LHUB is also offering broad-based programs across adaptive, technology and technical skills that help deepen their competencies in their fields of work.
These training programs have been curated by NTUC LHUB together with NTUC U FSE (NTUC Freelancers and Self-Employed Unit) and in partnership with SkillsFuture Singapore, lead agencies, unions and associations, NTUC’s e2i (Employment and Employability Institute), and in consultation with SEP communities.
Currently, the programs focus on Business and Professional Skills – which help trainees build a sustainable and viable career as a self-employed person by strengthening their business and professional skills – and Vocational Skills – for trainees to deepen their expertise in their area of specialization, customized for specific vocations. More programs will be released at a later date.
“NTUC LearningHub is here to support SEPs in gaining new skills that can help their current business and make them more resilient, or alternatively seek a transition into sectors that are short of manpower. We encourage those who are keen to make an enquiry with us to further understand the support they tap onto and discuss their options,” added Mr Kwek.