SkillsFuture Courses for Seniors

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Ms Joan Pereira, Tanjong Pagar GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education whether the Ministry will consider drawing up a list of SkillsFuture courses for seniors whereby they can attend with one younger family member to help them in their learning journeys.

Response

1. There is a wide range of affordable courses designed specifically for seniors, including IT courses at various levels of proficiencies, and learning opportunities under the National Silver Academy (NSA) offered by community-based organisations and Institutes of Higher Learning.

2. Many of these courses are delivered by experienced adult educators who can cater to the learning needs of seniors. Selected NSA courses are offered in various vernacular languages, and we are prepared to run more of such courses if there is demand.

3. NSA courses also include inter-generational learning programmes that pair students with senior learners, to teach seniors various topics such as IT, social media, e-payment, accessing government digital services, staying safe online and photography.

4. Family members who wish to accompany their seniors are welcome – either as a pairing partner in place of the students, or to attend the courses as fellow course participants. For seniors who have specific learning needs that require further assistance, family members may approach training providers to discuss the most appropriate form of learning support, including being accompanied by a family member when necessary.