The Singapore Budget 2025 has brought exciting updates to the SkillsFuture initiative, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to lifelong learning and workforce transformation.
At @ASK Training, we understand how these changes can impact your career journey, whether you’re looking to upskill, switch careers, or stay ahead in your field.
Here’s a breakdown of the key updates and what they mean for you:
1. Revamped SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
Online Wallet System:
- The SFEC will now operate like an “online wallet,” allowing companies to check their credit balance and immediately offset eligible expenses.
- This makes the scheme more user-friendly and accessible for businesses.
Fresh Credit Allocation:
- Companies with at least three resident employees will receive a fresh S$10,000 credit from the second half of 2026, valid for three years.
- The current SFEC, originally set to expire in June 2025, will now continue to be available until then.
Why It Matters for You:
This means more employers will likely invest in upskilling their workforce, creating a win-win situation for both businesses and employees.
2. SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme Expansion
If you’re aged 40 and above, the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme (SFLP) now offers even more flexibility to balance learning with work:
- Part-Time Training Allowance: Starting in early 2026, you can receive S$300 per month while pursuing part-time training. This helps cover expenses like course materials and transport, making it easier to learn without putting your career on hold.
- Full-Time Training Support: For those looking to make a bigger career switch, the full-time training allowance of up to S$3,000 per month (50% of your average income) remains available.
- Lifetime Cap: You can use up to 24 months of training allowances over your lifetime, giving you the flexibility to pace your learning journey.
Why It Matters for You:
Whether you’re looking to upskill while working or take a career break to reskill, these updates provide the financial support you need to take the next step in your professional journey.
3. Increased Support for NTUC Company Training Committee (CTCs)
Increased Funding:
- An additional S$200 million has been allocated to the NTUC Company Training Committee (CTC) grant.
- This funding supports employer-led training programmes that lead to formal qualifications or certifications.
Why It Matters for You:
If your company is part of a CTC, you may have access to more structured training programmes that can help you gain recognised certifications and advance your career.
4. Enhanced Support for Lower-Wage Workers
Workfare Skills Support (WSS) Expansion:
- Previously focused on short courses, the WSS will now include longer-form courses to provide deeper upskilling opportunities.
- Starting from early 2026, lower-wage workers aged 30 and above will receive monthly training allowances for selected part-time and full-time courses, similar to the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme.
Why It Matters for You:
If you’re considering a career switch or looking to move into higher-value roles, these enhancements ensure you have the resources to gain the skills needed for a successful transition.
5. New SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant
Consolidation of Schemes:
- The new grant combines existing schemes under Workforce Singapore and SkillsFuture Singapore into a single, streamlined funding source.
- This simplifies the application process for companies and reduces administrative burdens.
Funding Support:
- Companies can receive up to 70% funding support for job redesign activities, such as restructuring roles to incorporate new technologies or workflows.
Why It Matters for You:
As a learner, this could translate to more opportunities for on-the-job training and career advancement within your current organisation or in new roles.
6. Support for Lifelong Learning at Institutes of Higher Learning
The Singapore Universities Trust has been extended by 10 years and SUSS will develop a new city campus focused on lifelong learning. These developments ensure that adult learners and career switchers have access to high-quality, socially focused programmes.
Why It Matters for You:
If you’re considering further education or specialised training, these updates mean more options and resources to help you achieve your goals.
7. Commitment to Lifelong Employability
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasised the government’s commitment to investing in every worker’s skills and employability.
As he stated, “We cannot stop the waves of technological innovations. Nor can we save every job. But we can and will invest in every worker and every Singaporean.”
Why It Matters for You:
These updates are a reminder that no matter where you are in your career, there’s always support available to help you stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
Wrapping Up
Budget 2025 demonstrates a forward-looking approach to workforce development. This prepares Singapore for the future of work, ensuring a skilled and resilient workforce capable of navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities of the 21st century.
Key Takeaways:
- Individuals: Benefit from expanded training support under the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme and enhanced WSS for lower-wage workers.
- Businesses: Gain access to simplified funding through the new Workforce Development Grant and a more user-friendly SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit.
- Overall: Budget 2025 emphasises lifelong learning and equips Singaporeans with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic economy.
Whether you’re a mid-career professional looking to pivot or someone simply seeking to stay relevant in a fast-changing economy, these enhancements provide the tools and support you need to succeed.
For the most up-to-date information on these initiatives and eligibility criteria, please refer to the official Ministry of Finance and SkillsFuture Singapore website.
Ready to take on Your Future?
@ASK Training is here to help you navigate these changes and make the most of the opportunities available.
We offer full and individual courses ranging from Digital Marketing, Information Technology (IT), Microsoft Office, and many more.
Whether you’re looking to upskill, reskill, or switch careers, our courses are designed to equip you with the skills needed for the future.
Take the next step and explore our courses today!
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