Oral Answer to PQ on Impact of AI on fresh graduate hiring

NOTICE PAPER NO. 410 OF 2026 FOR SITTING ON OR AFTER 26 JANUARY 2026
QUESTION NO 1193 FOR ORAL ANSWER

NMP: Assoc Prof Terence Ho

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the adoption of artificial intelligence is prompting employers to slow down the hiring of fresh graduates of Institutes of Higher Learning in certain sectors or occupations; and (b) whether the Ministry has plans to help boost the employability of and opportunities available to fresh graduates facing such challenges.

Answer:

The employment rates of fresh graduates from Institutes of Higher Learning, or IHLs, have remained broadly stable over the decade, with some year-to-year fluctuations due to cyclical changes. These fluctuations reflect a combination of factors, including broader economic uncertainty, geopolitical developments, and changing career aspirations of graduates. While artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping the labour market, its specific impact on entry-level PMET jobs remains uncertain.

2. To prepare graduates for the AI era, IHLs are working closely with sector agencies and industry partners to keep their curriculum relevant, integrating AI competencies, domain-specific training, and 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.

3. In this fast-changing environment, our students must continue to remain adaptable. We will support them to navigate 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.

4. In view of the heightened economic uncertainties in 2025, the Government introduced the GRaduate Industry Traineeships Programme to support young graduates to obtain industry-relevant experience and facilitate their transition to permanent employment.