Over 700 projects approved, boosting wages, skills, and workforce transformation across industries

Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has approved more than 700 Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant projects across 500 companies, a milestone that will benefit close to 10,000 workers through higher wages, upskilling, and structured career pathways.

Expanding Support for Workers

Since the launch of the CTC Grant in April 2022, the scheme has co-funded up to 70 percent of qualifying costs for companies’ transformation projects or training. Workers, including professionals, managers, and executives (PMEs), are expected to see an average wage increase of 5 percent above their annual increment, alongside skills allowances and structured career development plans.

AI Driving Business and Workforce Change

Among the 700 approved projects, more than 70 feature artificial intelligence (AI)-related initiatives. NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng noted that AI adoption is becoming central to workforce transformation. “We are committed to ensuring AI augments, not replaces, workers. Training and job redesign will prepare workers for new roles and keep Singapore’s workforce competitive,” he said.

Strengthened by Government Funding

Since its inception in 2019, over 3,600 CTCs have been formed. To sustain momentum, the government provided S$100 million in funding in 2022, followed by another S$200 million in Budget 2025. This financial backing underscores the national priority placed on productivity, digitalisation, and worker readiness.

AI Transformation Blueprint and AIRI

Recognising AI’s growing role, NTUC partnered with AI Singapore to launch the AI Transformation Blueprint in March 2025. The framework includes the AI Readiness Index (AIRI), helping businesses assess gaps, accelerate AI adoption, and equip workers with future-ready competencies. Over 100 companies have already completed the AIRI assessment within six months of its rollout.

Case Study: SBS Transit’s Tyre Management System

SBS Transit recently implemented a CTC Grant project to introduce an automated Tyre Management System at its Seletar and Ulu Pandan depots by end-2025. Using cameras, strobe lights, and sensors, the system captures tyre conditions and applies AI algorithms for real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance. The initiative is expected to save S$200,000 annually, free up technicians for higher-value roles, and eliminate manual inspections, thereby enhancing safety.

New Career Pathways for Technicians

Alongside the system, SBS Transit launched a “Diagnostic Expert” career scheme benefiting over 50 workers. The scheme includes a skills roadmap, structured career progression, and wage enhancements. NTUC emphasised that such initiatives elevate the professional image of technicians, making the sector more attractive to new talent.

With nearly 10,000 workers set to benefit, NTUC’s CTC Grants are driving a new era of workforce transformation in Singapore. By blending AI adoption with structured upskilling and career pathways, the initiative positions Singapore’s workforce for sustainable growth and resilience. Its approach resonates regionally, offering insights for countries like Indonesia and Malaysia that are navigating similar digital and workforce shifts.

Sources: The Business Times (2025) , ntuc.org.sg (2025)

Keywords: NTUC CTC, Workforce Transformation, Skills Training, AI Adoption, Career Development