New Workfare Training Support Scheme for Low Wage Workers and Employers
Low-wage workers encouraged to upgrade skills through training to boost employability
From 1 July 2010, low wage workers can enjoy higher course fee funding, cash awards and greater support when they upgrade their skills. The Workfare Training Support (WTS) scheme encourages low wage workers to upgrade their skills through training, so that they can improve their employability and upgrade to better jobs.
Key features of the WTS scheme:
- Lower Cost of Training for Low-Wage Workers and their Employers
Singaporeans aged 35 years and above, who earn $1,700 a month and less, will receive higher course fee funding of up to 95% when they sign up for Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) training courses at Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres. Employers will also enjoy higher levels of course fee support and Absentee Payroll to offset the salaries of these workers when they are away at training.
- Cash Award for Low-Wage Workers to Undergo Sustained Training
Low wage workers eligible for Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) will be awarded a Training Commitment Award of $200 in cash for every two WSQ modular Statements of Attainment or a full WSQ qualification they attain within a year. Each worker can receive up to a maximum of $400 every year for the Training Commitment Award.
- Strengthen Literacy Foundation for Skills Training
A new Workfare-Skill Up programme will be offered at Workforce Development Agency’s (WDA) career centres located at the Community Development Councils and the National Trades Unions Congress’ Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) to assist low wage workers in building a stronger foundation before taking on more vocational courses.
For more information on the WTS scheme or to register for Workfare-Skill Up, please call WTS toll-free hotline at 1800-5368 333 (Mon-Fri: 8.30am – 8.00pm; Sat: 8.30am – 1.00pm) or email to wda_enquiry@wda.gov.sg.
You can also visit www.workfare.sg for more information.