The council will focus on areas such as broad sector-specific training for workers and targeted transition support for at-risk workers and occupations to facilitate a timely transition.
Tripartite partner in Singapore — Ministry of Manpower (MOM), National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) — A new tripartite employment council (TJC) will be established to support workers and businesses as they transition to the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Recognizing the urgency for concerted action to address the impact of AI, TJC is focused on helping businesses adopt AI responsibly and ensuring employees have the skills they need to remain relevant as jobs change. Additionally, it will support and strengthen the respective efforts and programs of the trilateral partners and complement the government’s efforts to advance Singapore’s AI agenda under the National AI Council.
This is achieved through the following key areas:
- Coordinated support for companies to transform their workforce alongside AI implementation;
- Extensive sector-specific training for workers and targeted transition support for at-risk worker segments and occupations to facilitate timely transition.
- Raise public awareness of AI and accelerate adoption of initiatives.
The TJC also enables trilateral partners to expand coverage, accelerate policy implementation, and direct resources where they are needed most. This will help employers adopt AI responsibly, while increasing workers’ AI readiness and job security.
Here are statements from various leaders of the tripartite partners:
Dr Tan See Leng, Minister of Manpowersaid TJC represents the joint efforts of the three parties to transform the potential of AI into good jobs for Singaporeans.
“By harnessing the collective strength and capacity of trade unions, employers and governments, we will help all workers reach their full potential and enable every business to thrive by getting the best out of its people.”
Ng Chee Meng, NTUC Secretary General He added that as AI changes the way people work, it is essential to ensure that workers are not left behind in the transformation. He said TJC will be able to bring together and expand the capabilities of the tripartite organization under one roof as partners take joint action to stand by workers in all walks of life, especially professionals, managers and executives (PMEs), and youth.
“TJC is our unwavering commitment to supporting workers, ensuring they have the right skills and benefit from new opportunities in the AI-enabled economy.”
as Mr. Tan Hee Teck, President of SNEF, It also notes the importance of continuing to strengthen business competitiveness by helping employers navigate transformation and seize new opportunities arising from AI, while building a workforce that can effectively leverage AI to improve productivity.
“TJC’s efforts will focus on ensuring sustainable growth for companies and good employment for workers.”
Further details regarding the composition and plans of the JTC will be revealed in due course.
Lead image / SNEF
