AI or Be Replaced? Why Singaporean Professionals Are Rushing to Upskill

SINGAPORE, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore's workforce is at a turning point. As artificial intelligence (AI) adoption accelerates, businesses are rethinking how they operate, automate, and scale. According to the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), in 2024, over 75% of industries worldwide have integrated AI into their workflows. Singapore's push for digital transformation has made AI upskilling a necessity rather than an option. Companies and individuals that fail to adapt risk falling behind as AI-powered automation reshapes work processes, decision-making, and talent requirements. Illustrating this shift, local bank DBS recently announced that it expects to cut around 4,000 contract roles in the next three years as AI increasingly automates these functions.

With AI rapidly disrupting industries, adoption is becoming a non-negotiable for professionals and businesses alike. Organisations implementing AI-driven automation report 30% faster workflows, as highlighted in Singapore's National AI Strategy report by Smart Nation. The IMDA's AI Readiness Index & Case Studies further indicate a 50% reduction in repetitive tasks. Cost is also a significant driver of AI adoption, with companies potentially saving up to 50% in operational expenses, according to Amazon Web Services' AI Adoption Study. However, successful AI integration hinges on ensuring that workers have access to upskilling opportunities.

Greater Support for Upskilling: Budget 2025

During the Budget 2025 announcement on February 18, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong acknowledged concerns about the impact of rapid industry changes on Singaporeans' livelihoods. The SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme (SFLP) will be significantly enhanced to support mid-career development, offering greater flexibility for Singaporeans aged 40 and above.

Starting in early 2026, a new part-time training allowance of S$300 per month will be introduced to support individuals pursuing part-time courses, while the existing full-time allowance of up to S$3,000 per month remains available for those seeking career transitions.

The Challenge of Building an AI-Ready Workforce

Yet, the real challenge lies in developing an AI-ready workforce that can harness these tools effectively. A 2024 YouGov survey of 1,000 Singaporean employees found that 63% had not received employer-led training in using generative AI ethically. This reflects a gap in corporate AI education efforts.

Recognising this need, Vertical Institute, a leading provider of in-demand AI training, has committed to making AI education accessible to a broad audience. With over 15,000 alums, the Singapore-based training provider has played a key role in equipping Singapore's professionals with the skills needed to leverage AI for business impact. Beyond alumni numbers, Vertical Institute's true success lies in the professionals who have transformed their careers—and their companies—through these training programmes.

From Spreadsheets to AI-Driven Workflows: Hidayah's Story

Hidayah Alias, 28, an analyst at an investment firm, is one such alumnus who has reaped the benefits of AI upskilling. When tasked with developing dashboards and streamlining reporting processes, she struggled with inefficiencies – 90% of her time was spent on pivot tables and manually processing data. She recognised the need to enhance her data science skills, so she used her SkillsFuture credits to enrol in an AI course at Vertical Institute.

"Learning AI-powered problem-solving skills completely changed my approach at work," Hidayah shared. "The course didn't just introduce new tools—it helped me break down complex challenges into manageable steps. Learning from instructors who are industry experts gave me the confidence to apply AI-driven solutions at work."

Following her upskilling journey, Hidayah successfully implemented automated reporting systems, cutting manual effort significantly and improving decision-making efficiency within her company.

AI-Driven Job Search Success: Aishah's Journey

AI is transforming business operations and reshaping hiring and job search strategies. Nur Aishah Abdullah, 38, another Vertical Institute alumnus, leveraged her training to secure a new role at a multinational law firm.

"The role-playing interviews using ChatGPT were a game-changer," she recalled. "Practicing real-world responses, anticipating interview questions, and refining my communication skills gave me theconfidence that translated into my actual interview performance, which helped me to secure the job."

Beyond technical skills, Aishah found value in the structured online learning experience, which allowed her to learn from industry AI practitioners. "It wasn't just theory. The case studies and real-world examples made the learning highly practical," she added.

The Future of Work: Businesses Need AI-Ready Talent

Singaporean businesses are actively investing in AI, with 67% of companies already integrating it into their operations. Yet, the biggest hurdle remains: finding talent capable of navigating, implementing, and maximising AI technologies.

Aishah believes the key is not fearing AI but learning to work alongside it.

"Many professionals worry about AI replacing jobs, but what's more crucial is learning how to adapt and apply AI to everyday tasks. The ability to evolve with technology makes you invaluable to any company," she said.

Generative AI is no longer a futuristic concept for businesses—it is a competitive advantage. From automating workflows and reducing operational costs to enhancing decision-making, the ability to leverage AI is now a defining factor in business success.

Vertical Institute: Bridging the AI Skills Gap

What sets Vertical Institute apart is its commitment to real-world learning. Unlike traditional training providers, Vertical Institute offers AI courses designed and taught by industry professionals who use AI daily in their respective roles. This approach ensures participants learn AI concepts and acquire practical skills that drive tangible business outcomes.

"Vertical Institute's Generative AI curriculum equips students with real-world skills that put them ahead of industry trends, empowering them to innovate, lead, and shape the future of their careers in an increasingly AI-driven world," says Dr Peter Finn, Generative AI Instructor at Vertical Institute and also Co-founder and CEO @ Synectify.

Vertical Institute website: https://verticalinstitute.com/generative-ai-course/

About Vertical Institute

Vertical Institute prepares individuals for the jobs of tomorrow. We specialise in teaching in-demand skills and building the next generation of changemakers and inventors through our world-class in-demand courses and certifications.

Vertical Institute is accredited as an Approved Training Provider (ATO) by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and the Institute of Banking and Finance Singapore (IBF). All our courses are government-subsidised and eligible for SkillsFuture Credits usage and NTUC UTAP Funding.

SOURCE Vertical Institute Pte Ltd