Singapore Public Transport Upskilling Initiative Aims to Train 20,000 Workers

SMRT Corporation launched a major new workforce training program on December 2, 2025. The initiative partners with Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU). Its goal is to upskill thousands of workers employed by contractors across the public transport system. This move directly addresses the need for modernization in the sector.The collaborative effort aims to transform the skills landscape. It focuses on workers from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that support daily operations. According to reports from the Railway Gazette, this is a structured three-year plan to build future-ready capabilities.

A Sector-Wide Push for Modern Skills

The program targets a significant portion of the transport workforce. Organizers plan to engage over 200 SME contractors and more than 20,000 of their employees. Training will concentrate on adopting new technologies and enhancing safety procedures. This is critical for maintaining Singapore’s reputation for reliable public transit.SMRT acknowledged that contractor employees often have fewer development opportunities. This initiative seeks to close that gap systematically. Better skills are expected to lead to improved service reliability and safety for millions of daily commuters.

Building a More Inclusive and Resilient Workforce

Union leaders have strongly endorsed the plan. NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng framed it as essential for uplifting the entire industry. He connected workforce transformation directly to better wages and more meaningful jobs for workers. This people-centric approach is a core theme.The National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) emphasized the vital role of SME workers. NTWU Executive Secretary Yeo Wan Ling called them the “unseen but essential backbone” of the transport network. The collaboration aims to create safer and more progressive workplaces for everyone involved.

Why This Upskilling Drive Matters Now

Public transport globally is undergoing rapid technological change. Automation, digital systems, and predictive maintenance are becoming standard. Workers must adapt to these new realities to stay relevant and ensure network resilience.Investing in human capital is now as important as investing in new trains or signals. This initiative provides a potential blueprint for other cities facing similar modernization pressures. Success could elevate career prospects across the transport sector.The program’s focus on inclusivity ensures no worker is left behind due to their employer’s size. It represents a long-term investment in the sector’s sustainability and its people. The benefits are designed to flow to both commuters and the workforce.

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This public transport upskilling initiative represents a strategic investment in Singapore’s most vital infrastructure: its people. By equipping 20,000 workers with future-ready skills, the sector builds a foundation for decades of safe, reliable service.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What is the SMRT upskilling initiative?

It is a sector-wide training program launched in December 2025. SMRT, NTUC, and NTWU are partnering to upskill workers from contractor SMEs. The goal is to modernize skills for over 20,000 employees.

Q2: Who benefits from this training program?

Workers employed by SMRT’s contractor partners are the primary beneficiaries. Ultimately, commuters benefit from a more skilled workforce ensuring safer, more reliable transport. The SMEs also gain a more capable and adaptable team.

Q3: What kind of skills will be taught?

Training will focus on adopting new technologies relevant to public transport operations. It will also heavily emphasize advanced safety procedures and protocols. Job-specific technical capabilities and adaptability are key components.

Q4: How long will this initiative last?

The program is structured as a three-year plan to systematically reach its goals. Engagement with over 200 SMEs will be rolled out during this timeframe. It is designed for sustained impact rather than a short-term campaign.

Q5: Why is union involvement important?

NTUC and NTWU ensure the workers’ perspectives and welfare are central to the program. Their involvement helps guarantee training leads to better jobs and wages. They advocate for inclusive and progressive workplace outcomes.

Q6: Will this affect public transport reliability?

Yes, but positively in the long run. A more highly skilled workforce is better equipped to maintain and operate complex systems. This directly contributes to improved service safety and consistency for commuters.