Nanyang Polytechnic, supported by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), is partnering with the Swiss Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (SFIVET), and the German Chamber of Industry & Commerce (IHK Akademie) to launch a new training centre. Named as the National Centre of Excellence for Workplace Learning (NACE), the initiative aims to provide support for local companies in building work-learn capabilities and developing workplace learning systems.

SFIVET and IHK Akademie are well regarded internationally for their focus on vocational education and training, and workplace learning systems. They have worked with notable companies across Europe, such as Nestle, Credit Suisse, Daimler and Siemens, to enhance their workplace learning processes, and through the collaboration with NACE, Singapore companies can similarly benefit from their expertise.

The collaboration between NACE, SFIVET and IHK Akademie is expected to build a pool of skilled trainers who are capable of identifying and evaluating issues in their companies as well as providing customised training solutions. SFIVET and IHK Akademie will also share with NACE’s trainers their experience and expertise in training while building good in-house systems and processes, which can be applied to Singaporean companies.

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Launched by Minister for Education Mr Ong Ye Kung, the centre will provide the expertise to equip companies with the capability to train and develop their workers through the best training practices and certifying trainers. Over 1,000 companies, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the country, are expected to gain benefit from the centre by 2023. NACE also offers customised solutions to develop in-house training systems for companies. Grants will be provided to help employers cover the costs of developing such workplace learning capabilities.

Trainers in participating companies can continue to upgrade themselves to become Specialist Trainers and ultimately Master Trainers, with internationally recognised certification from SFIVET or NACE. Local companies can also participate in NACE’s learning journeys to gain insights and look at good practices on workplace implementation from best-in-class companies locally and overseas.

Ms Jeanne Liew, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Nanyang Polytechnic, said, “Companies and employees constantly face the challenge of freeing up time for training. But with evolving technologies and business demands, it has become imperative that we address any mismatch between jobs and skills. With this approach, we can work with firms and tailor an approach that is structured and documented, yet has relevant and specific content to the company. We are honoured that SkillsFuture Singapore is working with us on this challenge.”

Mr Ng Cher Pong, Chief Executive of SkillsFuture Singapore, said, “Building workplace learning capabilities is critical especially in this age of disruption and transformation. With the setting up of NACE, we will draw on best practices from Switzerland and Germany, and strengthen the support available to companies, especially SMEs, to help them develop such in-house capabilities.”

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