NTUC launches S$2.5 million fund to help migrant workers upskill
Examples of courses they can take include forklift operation and tech application in workplace safety and health
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A NEW S$2.5 million fund by the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) will support some 6,600 migrant workers in upskilling themselves for better career advancement and higher wages.
The funds enable workers to take courses in areas such as forklift operation, as well as technology application and construction work supervision in workplace safety and health, said NTUC on Wednesday (Sep 18).
To qualify, workers have to be an ambassador with the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC). MWC is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) affiliated with NTUC. To date, there are 6,600 members in its network.
MWC will partner training providers, such as NTUC LearningHub, to provide these courses. It will also allocate funds to subsidise these courses for up to 1,500 of the NGO’s ambassadors over an 18-month period starting from Jul 1, 2024.
In addition to training, the fund will subsidise recreational activities organised by migrant workers. All workers can qualify, as long as the activity takes place within the four recreation centres operated by MWC and NTUC Club. These could be sporting activities or training workshops.
As part of the overall initiative, MWC will also distribute gift bags comprising daily essential items and consumables to its migrant worker associate members to help defray living costs. These will be distributed at recreation centres, onboarding centres and events. Associate members need not be ambassadors to receive the goody bags.
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“The S$2.5 million commitment underscores our dedication to enhancing the welfare and skills of our migrant workers,” said NTUC secretary-general Ng Chee Meng, who made the announcement during an appreciation event for partners supporting migrant and domestic workers.
“Through this initiative, we are not just investing in their future, but also strengthening the foundation of our inclusive workforce,” he added.
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