Written Answer to PQ on GRIT Support for Graduates with SEN and Disabilities

NOTICE PAPER NO. 1391 OF 2026 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 7 OCTOBER 2026
QUESTION NO. 3153 FOR ORAL ANSWER

MP: Dr Neo Kok Beng

To ask the Acting Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry will consider establishing a permanent, dedicated track under the Graduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) scheme specifically tailored for graduates with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities; (b) if so, what structural enhancements will be introduced to provide permanent job-coaching support and workplace accommodations; and (c) how does the Ministry plan to incentivise host organisations to sustain this specialised track over the long term.

Answer:

MOM recognises that graduates with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities may face additional barriers in transitioning into employment, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the support they need.

2. The GRaduate Industry Traineeships (GRIT) scheme was designed as a temporary intervention to help graduates gain industry-relevant skills and experience amidst weak hiring conditions. As GRIT is not intended to be a permanent scheme, establishing a dedicated track within it may not be the most sustainable or effective way to support graduates with SEN and disabilities in the long term. Instead, we have put in place more comprehensive and sustained support structures across their education-to-employment journey.

3. For example, the vocational education curriculum in special education (SPED) schools equip those who can work with work-ready skills, while the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and polytechnics provide industry-relevant training as well as support for internships to provide valuable workplace exposure and prepare them for transition into employment. Beyond schooling years, persons with disabilities may receive dedicated disability employment support such as sector-based training, job matching and job coaching, while employers can tap on support for job redesign, workplace adaptations and inclusive hiring practices.

4. To further strengthen support for persons with disabilities to secure meaningful and sustained employment, the Taskforce on Assurance for Families with Persons with Disabilities recently released its recommendations. The recommendations include measures to provide more work exposure during schooling years, targeted education, career and planning guidance, more comprehensive and sustained employment support, as well as stronger support for employers to hire and retain persons with disabilities.