Fresh graduates in Singapore urged to broaden job search as government steps up employment support

The Economic Resilience Taskforce is exploring new ways to support students entering the workforce, Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Gan Siow Huang shared.

Fresh graduates in Singapore may be feeling uncertain about their job prospects amid ongoing economic uncertainties, but the government is assuring them there is reason to stay hopeful.

Speaking at an engagement session with polytechnic students, Gan Siow Huang, Minister of State for Trade and Industry acknowledged these concerns and highlighted the support available to help graduates navigate the job search. She added that the government is keeping a close watch on the employment situation and acknowledges the anxious feeling some graduates are experiencing around job placement.

To support graduates, education and career coaches across Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), Workforce Singapore (WSG), and NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) are working more closely to assist in their job search.

MOS Gan shared that she was encouraged by feedback from recent focus group discussions. According to her, IHLs are increasing their efforts by organising more career fairs and workshops, and by getting industry experts to share information and networks with jobseekers.

At the same time, WSG and e2i are also working more closely with education and career coaches to cross-refer graduates who may need additional help, especially those entering specific sectors.

On a broader scale, the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, is studying additional ways to support students looking for employment.

MOS Gan said: “We know that companies are still hiring, and jobs are still available.”

She encouraged graduates to remain optimistic, broaden their job search, and approach a career coach if they need extra guidance.