Debated in Parliament on 26 Sep 2025.
Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for Education whether the Ministry will review the curricula and internship programmes of Institutes of Higher Learning, in view of recent disruptions caused by generative AI, to ensure alignment with industry needs and to provide students with relevant work experience that enhances their employability upon graduation.
Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Minister for Education how does the Ministry collaborate with (i) Institutes of Higher Learning to ensure their curricula better prepare students for entry into the workforce, in light of agentic AI tools that may displace entry-level graduate roles and (ii) industry to ensure curriculum remains relevant to evolving job market needs given the pace of technological advancement.
My response will address Question Nos 24 and 25 in today’s order paper.
We recognize that some young Singaporeans may be concerned about their employment prospects given how rapidly new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) are reshaping industries and jobs. The nature of work is changing but our labour market remains resilient. According to the Ministry of Manpower, as of June 2025, there are around 30,000 entry-level jobs available for fresh graduates across various sectors such as Health & Social Sciences, Professional Services, Information & Communications, and Wholesale Trade.
To help students seize opportunities amidst technological change, our Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) regularly review their course offerings in consultation with sector agencies and industry partners.
The existing curriculum helps IHL students to learn about AI and equips them with baseline digital literacy and AI competencies. Students also learn how to use AI within their specific disciplines, with IHLs integrating industry-relevant AI tools into courses and partnering industry to create hands-on AI learning environments where appropriate. One example is Temasek Polytechnic’s FutureX - Digital Technologies & AI Centre, which provides training to students on cloud computing and AI skills relevant to the digital economy. These skills are further honed when students complete internships or industry attachments that allow them to gain first-hand experience and apply their skills in real-world contexts.
Beyond teaching students to learn about AI and learn how to use AI, IHLs have also increased curricular focus on helping students learn beyond AI, by developing key competencies like critical thinking, interpersonal and collaboration skills, as well as the ability to work across cultures. These competencies are critical in equipping graduates with skills that can bring value beyond AI itself, preparing them for a myriad of roles in an evolving world of work.
Preparing students for tomorrow's workplace remains a key priority for our education system. The Ministry of Education (MOE) will continue to work with our institutions to equip our graduates with the necessary skills and competencies to meet evolving industry needs.
PAPERCUTS