Government ready to support fresh graduates on their chosen career pathways
Singapore has yet to see the impact of artificial intelligence on entry-level jobs, according to the government, amid reports globally of an AI-fuelled job apocalypse on entry-level roles.
Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Manpower Shawn Huang said the employment rates of fresh graduates from Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL) have remained "broadly stable over the decade."
"While artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping the labour market, its specific impact on entry-level PMET (professionals, managers, executives, technicians) jobs remains uncertain," Huang said.
The official made the remarks in response to a question in Parliament that wanted to know whether the adoption of AI is slowing down the hiring of fresh graduates in certain occupations.
The question reflects the mounting concern over AI's impact on entry-level roles, which other countries have already been seeing of late.
Data from the British Standards Institution found that 39% of businesses globally have already cut entry-level roles due to efficiencies made by AI conducting research, admin, and briefing.
The survey covered more than 850 business leaders in Australia, China, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
According to the global poll, nearly half of the respondents (43%) are expecting cuts to entry-level roles due to AI adoption.
Employability of fresh graduates
The findings have been raising concerns on the employability of fresh graduates everywhere, who are most impacted by the loss of entry-level jobs.
Huang said IHLs are working closely with sector agencies and industry partners to keep their curriculum relevant, such as by integrating AI competencies and enhancing core skills like critical thinking, creativity, and communication.
"These efforts are complemented by work-based learning programmes like the AI Apprenticeship Programme, which provide opportunities to apply AI skills in real workplace settings," he said.
The official also urged students to remain adaptable amid fast-changing times, and assured government support in their career pathways.
"Students and fresh graduates can access Education and Career Guidance services within IHLs, as well as career matching and coaching services through programmes offered by Workforce Singapore and NTUC's Employment and Employability Institute," Huang said.
