This FY, the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) commenced its role as an appointed partner for the Career Conversion Programme (CCP) in the Sea Transport Sector, collaborating closely with Workforce Singapore (WSG). This strategic partnership aims to support maritime companies in transforming their workforce through targeted hiring, reskilling, and job redesign initiatives, thereby ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled talent aligned with industry needs.
The CCP is delivered through two key modalities tailored to address distinct workforce challenges. The first modality focuses on the training of new hires, particularly mid-career professionals entering the maritime sector, by providing structured On-the-Job Training to equip them with the necessary skills for their new roles. The second modality supports companies in reskilling existing employees whose job roles are evolving due to business transformation, enabling them to adapt to expanded or redesigned responsibilities.
Financial incentives under the CCP have been instrumental in encouraging participation. Salary support is provided on a tiered basis, reflecting the age profile of the employees. For Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents below 40 years old, companies receive support covering 70% of the monthly salary, capped at S$5,000. For those aged 40 and above, an enhanced rate of 90% salary support is available, capped at S$7,500 per month. These subsidies significantly reduce the cost of workforce transformation and facilitate smoother transitions for both employers and employees.
SSA’s first-year partnership with WSG for the programme has been largely impactful. We successfully converted 100 maritime professionals spanning a variety of job functions across the sea transport sector into their new roles.