Blogs

Featured

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Thinking Skills in a Digital Age

Building on NTUC LearningHub's Thinking Skills in a Digital Age report, join us as CP Tham shares how critical thinking complements technical skills to build a resilient workforce and drive innovation in the digital economy.

Responsive Image

Stories

Discover how learning has transformed the lives of others, and be inspired to embark on your very own learning journey.

Stories 13 Jun 2024

Reinventing his Professional Path after Retrenchment

Airul Qaiz Matthew, in his mid-30s, was retrenched from his role as a construction project coordinator due to the pandemic. “Being retrenched was a devastating loss to me. But I know everything happens for a reason. If I did not lose my job, I would never have come to the realisation that the workplace is ever-changing, and that I needed to reskill myself. Instead of being reactive, I had to become proactive,” he shared candidly.

Noticing the plethora of opportunities available, he decided to pivot into the tech sector. To gain the necessary requisite skills for a successful career switch, he took up the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) Cybersecurity Associate course in NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB).

This transition proved to be challenging, as the last time he had learnt any tech-related skills was back in his secondary school days. Airul shared that he even struggled to use basic Microsoft operations. Undeterred, he persevered through the SCTP course and soon, the tech skills and terminologies became more familiar.

He valued how helpful and understanding his trainers were and, coupled with his hard work, his perseverance paid off. Subsequently, Airul secured a role as a Cybersecurity Administrator in the aviation industry where he conducts risk assessments for some systems and monthly log reviews. At work, he uses data interpretation skills he learnt during the course such as Structured Query Language (SQL). The course also motivated Airul to pursue certifications such as the Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional qualifications.

To those contemplating on making a career switch, Airul recommends grabbing any chance to reskill and upgrade. “Knowledge is power. Now most companies no longer look for those with ‘X’ years of experience. They want to know what skills and certificates you have — to remain employable, we need to constantly improve ourselves,” he shared.

View details
Stories 17 Sep 2023

From Retrenchment to Resilience: Navigating Career Challenges Through Upskilling

Stanley Lee, a seasoned professional in his 50s with over 20 years of experience under his belt, found himself unexpectedly retrenched from his role as a Systems Engineering Manager. Having dedicated five years to this position, he was taken aback by the news, prompting a discussion with his wife about their financial situation. They decided it was best to hide the news from their daughter, especially since she had just received her 'A level' results and was in the process of applying for university, to avoid worrying her.

Proactive in nature, Stanley first checked his finances to see if he had enough to fund his daughter’s education. Next, he updated his resume and kept track his job applications using a spreadsheet. Unfortunately, as it was during the early stages of COVID-19, many companies were wary of hiring. Three to four months of unemployment did not deter him; he remained calm and searched for courses to upskill and reskill himself to boost his employability. Ultimately, he enrolled in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics course at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) driven by his childhood passion for robotics and programming. 

He found the course to be enriching, with trainers who possessed extensive industry expertise and coursemates who made learning more engaging. “We were able to create a collaborative learning environment by sharing knowledge and experiences, as well as networking with one another,” he opined.

Although Stanley left the course some months later after receiving a job opportunity as Principal Engineer for a local infosecurity organisation, he mentioned that the skills he learnt came handy in his cybersecurity role and were applied in a couple of key projects. 

Now as a Senior Systems Engineer for a Modern Data Protection and Data Platform company, he noted that the course broadened his understanding and expertise as he progressed, both refreshing and improving his abilities. Moreover, it gave him confidence that it was still possible to expand his skill set, regardless of age. 

“Some roles may utilise your newly acquired skills, while other skills learnt may have indirect application too,” he shared. “I do believe a balance between technical and non-technical skills are beneficial and a must have. As long as you have the commitment and determination, you can demonstrate and apply your new knowledge and skills.”

View details
Stories 10 Jul 2023

Boosting Employability Through Technical and Soft Skills

Having worked as a procurement specialist with a chemical/mining services company for over a decade, Mariska Tan, who is in her 40s, began considering other job opportunities. The idea of leaving surfaced as there were talks of her company outsourcing talent, and was further fuelled by the responsibility of caring for critically ill family members. Mariska eventually made the brave decision to resign. 

With her newfound time, Mariska decided to take up a course at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) after hearing numerous positive reviews about learners’ experiences. She chose to take a six-month Community and Partnership Specialist course, which offered modules in digital marketing, event planning and Privacy Data Protection Act (PDPA) — all of which were of interest to her. She felt fortunate to be surrounded by classmates from diverse backgrounds, who pushed her to be the best version of herself intellectually and professionally. 

In the midst of her job search soon after she completed the six-month course, she still felt uncertain about her chances of securing new employment. Taking the advice from NTUC LHUB’s Skills Consultant, she also enrolled in the Career Resilience Executive Workshop (CREW by e2i) to equip herself with relevant interview skills.

The workshop not only boosted Mariska’s confidence during the interview process, but also gave her a unique advantage which differentiated her from other applicants. She wrote a handwritten card to her interviewers to express her gratitude for their time – a skill she learned from the CREW workshop. Serving as an added bonus beyond her technical capabilities, her sincere gesture demonstrated her soft skills, thereby creating a lasting impression on prospective employers and playing a part in landing her a job. The skills she acquired from both the course and workshop further enhanced Mariska’s relevance in her current role as a procurement and sustainability professional in an event organising company. 

To all those who are afraid to take that first step into uncertain territories, Mariska shares, “It is never too late to make a change in your life if you put your heart into it and stay positive.”

View details
Stories 01 Jun 2023

Upskilling for a New Career Post-retirement

Retirement creates the perfect opportunity to pursue long-standing interests. This was proven to be true for 62-year-old Boon Huat. A former senior manager in the motor vehicle industry, retiree Boon Huat decided to utilise the extra time he had to explore his interest in coffee. An avid coffee drinker, he was always keen to learn more about how to perfect the art of brewing a good cup of coffee. Thus, he enrolled in the Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) Provide Speciality Coffee Service and WSQ Prepare and Serve Local Hot and Cold Beverage courses at NTUC LearningHub.  

Through the courses, Boon Huat was enlightened on the different brewery skills needed to make a wide range of hot and cold beverages with consistency and serving the beverages. He was able to seamlessly ride through the course and with the support of his seasoned trainers, enabling him to successfully complete the two courses.  

The course did not just fulfill his interest to expand his horizons, but it paved the way to a career in a new industry. As a naturally driven person, Boon Huat readily grabbed the opportunity when he was offered a job in the food services industry. Today, he works as a barista where he not only brews coffee for his patrons but also serves them sandwiches and toasts, putting his newly acquired knowledge to practice.  

“Through the course, I now have a wider knowledge of coffee and coffee brewing skills. I have definitely been able to apply what I have learned from the course and have been able to brew better coffee with more practice. I am excited for what this new career and industry brings.” 

View details
Stories 01 Jun 2023

Turning his Passion into Reality through Upskilling

26-year-old Benjamin has always had a keen interest in brewing the perfect cup of coffee, having tasted his first cup of cappuccino when he was 17 on a school trip. Since that encounter, he became captivated by the beverage and wanted to dive deeper into its origin and the art of coffee making.  

On the encouragement of his parents, Benjamin, then a waiter in the hospitality industry, decided to professionally develop himself by pursuing his interest in coffee-making through a Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) Provide Specialty Coffee Service course at NTUC LearningHub. He enjoyed learning about the intricacies of gourmet coffee making, including striking the right balance in taste using grinder calibration and the distinct layers of milk and espresso that sets apart the various types of coffee drinks. “I also learned a lot more about the difference between Cappuccino and Café Latte, like how Cappuccino generally has a lot more froth compared to Café Latte. I even learned that Café Mocha can be prepared with cocoa powder, rather than using chocolate sauce,” he quips.  

The learning journey was not always smooth sailing for him, but Benjamin practiced diligently and aced his final coffee practical. Having successfully completed the course, Benjamin now works as a barista where he puts his newly minted skill to good use at work while also building upon the shared knowledge of his experienced colleagues. He credits the course for helping him transform his passion into a reality, where he can go beyond simply serving customers but also be responsible for the preparation of the food that he serves. The passionate coffee connoisseur endeavours to continue upskilling in coffee-making to share his knowledge with others.  

“I intend to continue practising and further fine-tuning my skills in coffee making, so that I can make better and better coffee for my customers every day. This will also be essential if I were to train others, including those with special needs, if I ever get such opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with them.” 

View details
Stories 31 Mar 2023

How being a COVID-19 Swabber Inspired him to Switch his Career

Despite climbing the corporate ladder, Abdul Razmin Abdul Razak did not feel fulfilled in his career. The 34-year-old started his career in 2012 as a Train Officer with a public transport operator and subsequently moved on to an office-hour job as an Assistant Engineering Executive in the public sector five years later to better manage his time between work and pursuing a diploma. Soon after, he was promoted to the position of a Property Executive.

Although he was progressing in his career, Razmin began to feel stagnant in his job. When the pandemic hit in 2020, he took the opportunity to re-evaluate his career and left his job to become a Covid-19 swabber. While initially motivated by the desirable remuneration of the job, Razmin quickly became enthralled by the domain of safety. Nevertheless, he was also aware that the role of a swabber was temporary. As his new job granted him some extra time that he previously did not possess, Razmin set his mind to pursue the Workplace Safety and Advanced Health course at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB).

Over the course of six months, Razmin diligently managed his time between his dual jobs as a swabber and food delivery rider and eventually completed the programme. Keen to now pursue a career as a safety officer, he began to apply for numerous job roles. However, he was only invited to less than ten interviews. Yet, he dogged through and eventually secured a role as Safety Coordinator, where he currently puts his newly minted skills to good use.

Razmin’s tenacious spirit could be a result of his life experiences. Having battled depression at one point in his life, he credits his mother and two sons for being his pillar of strengths, enabling him to emerge stronger from what he describes as a dark period in his life. Now fully recovered and thriving, he wants to be a role model to his children.

Commenting on his experience, he shares, “Every day is a learning journey for me as a freshman in this industry. I am loving every part of my job. Afterall, they say if you love your job or any part that you do, you're able to excel! Never rest on your laurels. Always continue upskilling yourself, even if you think you have secured a good job with good pay.”

View details
Stories 11 Nov 2022

From Sharing Her Personal Struggles As a Primary Caregiver to Starting Her Own Business

Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher once said, "From caring comes courage." A simple yet powerful quote for Cathie Chew, 50.

In December 2016, Cathie gave up her career of 24 years as an insurance agent to become her husband's primary caregiver. Her husband suffered complications from consuming raw fish porridge back in November 2015.

Cathie's husband suffered multiple losses – his health, hearing, and eventually career. As a result, he was in a state of total distress. As a concerned wife, Cathie started to explore ways to distract him from focusing on his condition.

Cathie began writing her maiden book “From RAW Meal To REAL Deal" to share her personal story as a primary caregiver leading to her becoming an entrepreneur. She managed to persuade her husband to be involved in the process by editing the book. However, as a self-published author, aside from family, friends and relying on word of mouth, Cathie wanted her message to reach a wider audience. She decided to sign up for courses at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) to learn about how to market her books more effectively. At the same time, she wanted to increase the awareness of her personal brand as a local author.

Cathie shares that attending the courses kept her motivated as they were aligned with her learning objectives. Being a learner also allowed her to remain intellectually and socially engaged. This helped her through her partner's ordeal. Among the many courses she took were Certified Usability Analyst (CUA), Agility Marketing, and Business Model Canvas (BMC). Each of these courses gave her insights into the versatility of varied platforms to reach different customer segments. She also learnt the 9-step process that helped her analyse and evaluate her business objectives. Through these courses, Cathie also gained insights into user mentality and behaviour traits. All these helped her explore more meaningful ways to engage her current and potential customers.

The mother of three shares that she enjoys learning. She says NTUC LHUB's courses are essential for burgeoning entrepreneurs who are setting up new businesses. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to first enrol in a course at their comfort level before taking on more advanced courses.

Cathie's courage and resilience are a great inspiration to many of us. In this uncertain world, adversity is almost inevitable. Even if misfortunes strike, we can still find strength and courage to achieve our goals and seek fulfilment in different areas of our lives.

View details
Stories 04 Nov 2022

Expanding on his Skill Set to Gain a Competitive Advantage Post Retrenchment

Terry Koh’s life took an unfortunate turn when he was retrenched from his job in sales in the marine and offshore industry during the height of the pandemic. As a father of three young children, he was overwhelmed with worry that his family would not be able to manage solely on his wife’s income. Feeling despondent, he sought the advice of his peers to broaden his skill set to help boost his employability.


The 43-year-old took the retrenchment as an opportunity to reconsider his career aspirations, such as what sector he should pivot to, and the types of skills required. Thereafter, he came across the Digital Health, Safety and Environment Executive (HSE) course at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB). After researching further, he discovered that there is a demand in digital health, and safety skills. This sparked his interest in the course. He also attributes the decision to eventually enrol in the course due to his wife, who works in the healthcare sector. Terry explains that through his wife, he began appreciating the importance of health and safety at the workplace.


He was determined to upgrade himself and reached out to a course consultant at NTUC LHUB, who readily assisted him. She advised him to leverage on his 20 years of experience in the sales sector and take this opportunity to expand his skill set. The certification in Digital HSE value-added to his employability and gave him a leg up in his job search. His newfound knowledge and skills coupled with his extensive years of experience in the sales sector landed him a job as an aftermarket sales manager in the wastewater management sector, where he was appointed to spearhead the company’s workplace safety and health (WSH) initiatives.


Confident with his repertoire of skills, he adds that he has been able to transfer his critical core skills, or soft skills in people management, negotiation and communication from his previous role into his current position. On how he was able to persevere during his job hunt, the tenacious individual shares, “Learning new knowledge and skills kept me positive while I was searching for employment after being retrenched. I stayed committed to my upskilling journey and when the opportunity arose, I was able to make full use of it to gain new employment.”


Besides nurturing his potential, Terry was also able to grow his network through the course as he got to connect with people from diverse walks of life, which comes in handy in his line of work. As he transitions into a new industry, he has completed his specialist Diploma in WSH and taken up several other courses including Manage Work at Height, First Aid and Develop a Risk Management Implementation Plan, to better equip himself with job-ready skills for his new role.

View details
Stories 28 Oct 2022

Upskilling to Become a Well-rounded Professional

Rather than waiting for opportunities to present themselves, individuals with a growth mindset proactively seek out ways to grow and improve themselves. This rings true for Palanivelu S/O Raja Manickam, also known as Velu, a 39-year-old with an appetite for learning.

Velu has plenty of experience in the industrial services sector under his belt. Possessing an Advanced Diploma in International Business, he worked on site at Jurong Island for four years manning daily operations, before moving on to work at an oil refinery as a Deputy Operations Manager for an environmental services company. Despite the skills and knowledge that he has honed over the years, Velu does not allow himself to become stagnant and instead constantly searches for ways to stay competitive in the industry.

Due to the high-risk nature of his role, he felt the increasing need to upgrade his knowledge on safety regulations to improve the quality of his work. He elaborates, “My role requires me to ensure that there is strict compliance to the safety measures at work which meant that I had to bridge the gap in my Workplace, Health and Safety (WSH) knowledge. I realised that I had to stay ahead of the curve by upskilling.” He has since enrolled in courses with NTUC LearningHub such as Project Management Professional, Administer WSH Policy and Identify WSH Hazards & Implement Control Measures.

In due time, he earned the certification which helped to alleviate him as professional. With a heightened knowledge on WSH, he was able to bring new insights to the table and improve his productivity at work. Eventually, his hard work reaped its rewards. Recognising his drive to continuously learn and contribute meaningfully towards the company, Velu was entrusted with bigger portfolios and a promotion.

Stressing on the need to embrace upskilling, Velu shares, “I appreciate that I was able to attend a course that led me to be certified in project management and safety regulations. The certifications complement my role and enables my employer and clients to have confidence in me and the work that I do. Indeed, upskilling has helped me to become a well-rounded professional and progress in my career.”

Velu has his mind set on becoming a senior manager and a trainer in the future, such that when he ages, he is still able to share his knowledge and experience to the younger professionals. He opines that “Learning is a lifelong journey. Although we might not realise it, but we are learning something new every day. To me, the day we choose to stop learning, is almost the end of the road."

View details
Stories 21 Oct 2022

Making a Career Switch to Challenge Himself Professionally

At the height of the pandemic, every sector of the economy was affected, particularly the aviation industry. With the mass grounding of flights, most airlines deployed their employees to alternative roles that supported the fight against the virus. Among these employees was Daniel Lim, a former cabin crew, who was seconded to become a COVID-19 contact tracing executive officer.

Having worked as a cabin crew for 15 years, the abrupt change was initially a challenge for Daniel. His new role required him to be familiar with Microsoft Excel, a skill that he had not utilised since his university days over a decade ago. “After flying for so long, I felt like a fish out of water in my new role. As my Excel skills were no longer up to date, I faced a lot of difficulties whilst contact tracing. It then dawned upon me that I needed to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to new circumstances.”

Daniel did not let his struggles dampen his spirit but instead sought to rise above it. With the skills gaps he had, Daniel knew he needed a refresher course to update his knowledge and skills in Excel. Determined to upgrade himself, he enrolled in the Data Analysis Fundamentals Using Microsoft Excel course with NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB).
With a deeper knowledge in the HLOOKUP and VLOOKUP functions, Daniel shared that he was able to confidently track and match cases, thereby, enhancing his quality of work. He shares that his newfound skills and certification helped him to progress to a senior role, which required him to conduct statistical analysis and work with developers to manage the Information Technology (IT) systems.

As Daniel’s secondment was approaching its end, he sought to broaden his horizons and challenge himself by venturing into a new industry. He subsequently decided to leverage his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance to make a career switch to the finance industry.

Recognising the need to be updated and relevant in the evolving industry, he enrolled in several NTUC LHUB’s courses, such as Fundamentals of Java Programming, Machine Learning and Advanced Analytics Using Python, Project Management, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Financial Services. Equipped with job-ready skills, he eventually secured a role as a Finance Manager.

Daniel’s upskilling journey does not end here. He is currently pursuing two Master’s degrees in Accountancy and Information Studies. As he reaches greater heights in his career, this driven individual seeks to further improve his employability by actively looking for opportunities to reskill and upskill.

View details
Stories 12 Oct 2022

Juggling a New Born and Upskilling to Gain New Employment

Women are often at a crossroads between family commitments and financial independence. While times have changed, a woman’s primal instinct is to be a nurturer and caregiver first.

Nur Saiyidah Mohd Nordi's decision to take a one-year sabbatical leave after the birth of her third child took a turn for the worse when the pandemic hit. She was asked to leave her job of three years as a visa operations officer handling work, study and travel applications. She says, "It was so sad having to leave. I was worried about my family's financial situation and plans”.

Concerned about her uncertain future, Nur Saiyidah quickly adjusted her lifestyle to rearrange her financial and housing affairs. Then, with the encouragement of her husband to upskill, she started researching courses from NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) while attending to her new born. She added, "I found that NTUC LHUB offers a myriad of courses, and I took the opportunity to sign up for the Digital Supply Chain Management (SCM) Executive course. I saw it as a great opportunity as I wanted to pivot in my career and try to enter a different industry".

Among the skills that Nur Saiyidah picked up were Excel and Power BI. While juggling between taking care of her children and attending the courses online, she shares that the hard work paid off. “The course has deepened my knowledge in the supply chain industry, and I have a better understanding of how business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) logistics work. In addition, she was incredibly excited to learn the SAP Ariba system, as most companies are using it today for their business needs.

Nur Saiyidah advises those in a similar situation to not allow inertia as the stumbling block to upskill and to be resilient in unpredictable times. "I thought I would be in the same job until I retire, but when the opportunity presented itself, I followed my gut and took the leap of faith,” she says.

Nur Saiyidah's decision to upskill benefited her professionally and personally, giving her the confidence to face her future and achieve her goals. With newly acquired skills, she now works in the logistics field where she handles freight forwarding.

View details
Stories 07 Oct 2022

A Zest for Life and the Quest for Continuous Learning

While many look forward to retirement as an opportunity to rest, spend time with family and take up a new hobby, Carol Chiang does not share the same sentiment. This spritely 70-year-old security officer says nothing makes her happier than going to work. She loves her job and intends to continue working and stay employable for as long as possible.


Carol’s story may sound familiar to many of us. She spent 17 years in the advertising industry, a job she thoroughly enjoyed, reinforcing her desire to continue working even as she had to retire. She began picking up new skills even before officially retiring to boost her employability.


She set her sights on entering the security industry as she wanted to join the police force back when she was a little girl. She signed up for security courses at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) to pick up new skills and earn the certifications to meet the job requirements.


While she faced teething challenges at the beginning of her career in the security industry, she never gave up and took it in her stride. She quips a quote in Chinese, which translates to "Walk one step, see one step", meaning one should not worry too much about the future but take things one step at a time.


She thinks there is still much to learn in her job and what keeps her going is that she enjoys her work, and the people at her workplace are caring and supportive. She reinforces that one must not be too greedy for money and be grateful for opportunities. She adds, “Some of my colleagues have worked for 10 years in the company, you can learn a lot from them, so one needs to be humble”.


While most of her age is slowing down, Carol takes life by the horn and charges ahead. She does not think her age is a barrier and wants to keep learning for as long as possible. She sees learning as an enabler to better pay and job opportunities. Recently, she took up the Senior Security Officer Supervisory course as part of her continuous learning journey and found the Deterrence (Perform Security Duties At Protected Areas And Protected Places) course especially helpful in boosting her employability and expanding her scope of work.


Carol’s fearlessness in pursuing lifelong learning has brought her a sense of fulfilment. She does worry about the future and considers learning a part and parcel of life to keep herself mentally and physically active.

View details

Opinions

Gain insights from our fellow LHUBBERS as they share their own learning journey, and views on emerging trends in their specialised fields.

Opinions 11 Jul 2024

Kopi with LHUBBERS - The Woman Behind the Code

A cup with Phyu Me Zaw, Senior Business Analyst, NTUC LearningHub
By Steven Lee, Brand & Communications, NTUC LearningHub

On yet another sweltering day, the air hung heavy with humidity. It was against this backdrop that she entered our meeting space, her professional demeanour as crisp as her attire.

“Please make yourself comfortable,” I offered. “This cup of kopi may appear complimentary, but I will be collecting your payment in conversation currency,” I said in a playful tone.

Thus began my kopi session with Phyu Me Zaw, a Senior Business Analyst at NTUC LearningHub. Despite her small stature, Me Zaw exuded an aura of confidence. Her impressive trajectory in the ever-evolving tech industry stands as a beacon of inspiration for young women aspiring to leave their mark in the technology realm.

It was evident that Me Zaw's accomplishments were the fruit of considerable experience and an indomitable spirit—qualities perhaps requisite for excellence in a demanding field. My curiosity, however, extended beyond her professional façade; I sought to uncover the woman behind the code.

From humble beginnings

From her earliest years, Me Zaw harboured an ardent passion for computer science. Her innate affinity for logic and rationality enabled her to embrace coding as a second language easily. A strong foundation in mathematics, established during her youth, was crucial in her transition from software engineer to business analyst.

Yet, Me Zaw's path to NTUC LearningHub was far from a leisurely stroll. In her formative years, computers were a rarity, viewed as luxuries rather than the ubiquitous machines they are today. The tech industry, now omnipresent, was then barely visible on the horizon.

For a young Burmese girl with big dreams, it was particularly daunting—especially when those around her seemed content with less ambitious pursuits.

Reflecting on her journey, Me Zaw shared, "In Myanmar, prospects for growth and advancement were scarce. Only the academic elites in high school were granted the privilege of pursuing medicine or computer science. Those were challenging times. Even then, the Internet was practically non-existent in my country. Yet, my love for computers and all possibilities technology brings, fuelled my determination to learn everything about them.”

“In retrospect, it was this passion that propelled me to excel academically, knowing that a career in computing was my ultimate goal. I recognised how precious each opportunity was, and I went for them with strong determination, a decision I’m now really thankful for,” Me Zaw continued.

Hearing that, I almost sensed a tinge of relief in her voice. Me Zaw had persevered relentlessly to get to where she is today. Her passion for coding and problem-solving had led her to obtain a degree in Computer Science. Facing limited career opportunities back home, she made the bold decision to uproot herself to further her studies in Singapore. Her postgraduate diploma from the National University of Singapore (NUS) had not only equipped her with valuable skills but also opened doors to a rewarding career as a software engineer.

On the voyage of continuous learning

Throughout her career, Me Zaw had worked on various projects, ranging from cashless payment solutions to financial integration projects. Her ability to adapt to different teams and work environments has been a key factor in her success. “It's not about adhering rigidly to one style, but about how we tailor the approach to bring out the best from different team members,” she explained.

Drawing from her rich academic background and years of professional experience, Me Zaw has masterfully woven together her technical prowess and refined interpersonal skills into her current role as a Senior Business Analyst at NTUC LearningHub. In this pivotal position, she serves as a crucial conduit between full-stack developers and internal clients, leveraging her comprehensive understanding of both business dynamics and technical intricacies to generate insightful analyses and propose data-driven organisational change.

Despite her impressive accomplishments, Me Zaw maintains a humble perspective on her journey. "It is a continuous voyage," she reflects. "Much is still unexplored beneath the surface. I've yet to reach my full potential and I see ample room for growth and improvement.”

Me Zaw's commitment to lifelong learning has been the cornerstone of her professional evolution. In an industry characterised by rapid technological advancements, she firmly believes that maintaining relevance demands constant upskilling. "In this field, stagnation equates to irrelevance in the blink of an eye," she emphasised. This led her to pursue a Master of Technology in Software Engineering at NUS-ISS, a significant undertaking that saw her return to school years after her initial graduation.

As I absorbed Me Zaw's words, I couldn't help but feel in awe of her passion. Her journey serves as a compelling testament to the power of continuous learning and there are many leaves to take out from her book of life.

Female representation in the tech industry

As a woman navigating the tech space, Me Zaw has encountered her fair share of challenges, particularly in striking a work-life balance and maintaining her professional relevance. "Keeping pace with the tech industry's demands is an ongoing struggle," Me Zaw mused. "I must continually remind myself that change is both constant and inevitable.”

She candidly shares her perspective on the industry's demands: "If I could make an improvement in this field, it would be a more structured work schedule. From my previous experience as a technical lead, I learned that time management is crucial in the tech industry, especially in software engineering as a young woman with family responsibilities and commitments."

Despite these challenges, Me Zaw maintains an optimistic outlook on the increasing female representation in tech. "Compared to the past, I'm witnessing a growing number of young women in tech," she notes. "With flexible work arrangements today, such as in NTUC LearningHub, it has made the field more accessible to both women and men.”

“The industry stands to gain significantly from women’s perspective. Contrary to some beliefs, increased female representation in tech is undoubtedly beneficial, paving the way for innovation through crucial conversations, and a more balanced workforce. It's not about competition between genders; it's about the human experience in tech,” said Me Zaw.

Cooking maestro

When I asked about her hobbies outside of work, Phyu Me Zaw's face lit up with excitement. "I love cooking," she exclaimed. "My favourite dish to prepare for my family is a national Myanmar dish called Mohinga, a fish soup made with rice noodles. The recipe was passed down from my mother.”

“There are some eateries at Peninsula Plaza at City Hall which sell authentic Myanmar cuisine. Whenever I miss the taste of home, I always head down there for a spoonful,” Me Zaw said gleefully.

“Plus, I have grown to love local food as well. My husband and I love the diverse cultures that can be found in Singapore, which translates to a plethora of cuisines. I love laksa, so I have also learned how to prepare it too. Cooking really gives me the freedom to experiment and discover the tastes that I really like. There is always a new technique or method to prepare a dish, and I am always learning something new as well.”

Besides cooking, I further discovered that Me Zaw is an avid reader too. She enthusiastically described her favourite book of all time, entitled ‘How to Win Friends & Influence People’ by Dale Carnegie. One of her favourite quotes from the book is:

“You must be what your experiences, environment and heredity have made you. For better or for worse, you must play your own little instrument in the orchestra of life.”

Inspired by this quote, Me Zaw has constantly motivates herself to be better every single day, to gain new experiences, knowledge and to obtain the power to shape her environment. In this way, she can truly be the conductor in her life’s orchestra.

As our conversation drew to a close, I found myself marvelling at the depth and richness of the exchange. My kopi session this round highlighted the immense value of taking the time to truly connect with our colleagues, for in doing so, we not only enrich our understanding of one another but also foster a more vibrant and interconnected workplace community.

So, are we ready for the next?

Reach out to our Skills Consultants to find out more about how you can transform your life through learning today!

View details
Opinions 21 Mar 2024

Kopi with LHUBBERS - Navigating Adversity to Inspire Meaningful Change

A cup with Low Choon Chye, Head of Sustainability, NTUC LearningHub
By Steven Lee, Brand & Communications, NTUC LearningHub

It was a typical sweltering day when I had the pleasure of meeting Choon Chye. Dressed in a sharp pink business shirt and grey pants, his vibrant demeanour exuded confidence and charisma, reflecting his assuredness in his endeavours.

With over six years of tenure at NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB), Choon Chye has amassed considerable experience and knowledge, which he is eager to share with his colleagues or fellow LHUBBERS as we fondly call ourselves.

Quest to Inspire Positive Change
“My quest to inspire others started during my university days,” shared the Head of Sustainability at NTUC LHUB.

Driven by an earnest desire to enact meaningful change, Choon Chye spoke with profound enthusiasm: “I was fortunate to receive the Singapore National Cooperative Federation (SNCF) scholarship, which bore the emblematic motto ‘Scholars with a Heart’. I found resonance in its ethos, and this fuelled my aspirations to lead, serve, and contribute towards creating a better world for our community.”

With Aerospace Engineering as his major and Business as a minor, Choon Chye explained how this combination endowed him with indispensable skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. "While engineering modules provided a solid foundation, it was the nuances of business studies that captivated me, leading me to my current role at NTUC LHUB, where contributing to organisational growth and collective endeavour brings me immense fulfilment."

As I delved deeper into Choon Chye's journey, it became clear that his work is not merely a job – it is a purposeful venture aimed at transforming lives.

Curious about his perspective on leadership, I posed a question: "How have your insights into leadership evolved since taking on a leadership role in the workplace?"

Nurturing Leadership and Self-Management
“After assuming a leadership role, I have learned hard lessons as a leader. Management is an ongoing learning process. It is difficult to get everything right on the first try,” he said.

"A leader's role is to recognise the potential in each individual, enabling them to leverage their unique strengths for collective success. Embracing diversity is paramount; acknowledging that everyone brings distinct perspectives, experiences, beliefs, and values to the table. I cannot impose my own viewpoints and expect blind compliance.”

He emphasised that genuine leadership entails authenticity and sincerity, fostering a shared belief in the organisation's vision. “It is through this genuine connection that true innovation flourishes,” he continued. “But the hardest person you will ever have to lead is yourself,” said Choon Chye, drawing inspiration from Bill George's poignant words.

In addition to highlighting the significance of self-leadership and resilience, Choon Chye has underscored the vital role of establishing clear communication channels to amplify the value and benefits of NTUC LHUB's training programmes among key partners, trainers, and trainees. “In my capacity as a course developer and curriculum architect, I endeavour to articulate and exemplify the value proposition to diverse stakeholders, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and fulfilling diverse customer needs. A notable example is our partnership with electric carmaker BYD which focuses on the importance of electric vehicle (EV) safety and maintenance procedures and processes, thereby catering to other learners beyond EV technicians.”

“However, our very first class did not garner many sign-ups. This was disappointing and demoralising to my team. Yet, we went ahead after much discussion and support from our partner, BYD. I learned that despite initial setbacks, I should remain resolute in my pursuit of collective success. With patience and perseverance, I fostered an environment within my team where setbacks serve as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks in achieving our goals. Today, I am happy to share that classes are going well!” said Choon Chye.

Choon Chye also emphasised the importance of collaboration with industry partners to provide clients with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in the emerging green economy. “Regardless of the challenges faced, I strongly believe that we remain in a good position to champion sustainability in Singapore,” Choon Chye exclaimed.

Empowering Futures through Lifelong Learning
By now, it is evident that Choon Chye cherishes cultivating a growth mindset. But how does he translate this value into action? "I strongly advocate for lifelong learning as a catalyst for personal and organisational growth," he emphasises. "With unwavering support from my mentors, I embarked on a journey of professional development, pursuing the WSQ Diploma in Design and Development of Learning for Performance (DDDLP) and the Advanced Certificate in Learning and Assessment (ACTA). These courses have not only enriched my understanding of learning theories but also bolstered my ability to craft impactful curricula, facilitating profound learning journeys."

"As Head of Sustainability, I've cultivated a keen awareness of aligning business objectives with learning initiatives, while also considering the diverse attributes and profiles of our learners."

Choon Chye's journey at NTUC LHUB so far has underscored his dedication to enhancing the employability of workers in Singapore. "As I continue along this path, I'm humbled by the opportunity to contribute to shaping a brighter future for both individuals and organisations. I aim to inspire others through meaningful actions,” he reflected.

"And I hope that my work serves as inspiration for others to cultivate a growth mindset and effect meaningful change in their own lives." Choon Chye concluded.

Working Towards a Future Together
My kopi session with Choon Chye was both extensive and enlightening. Throughout our discussion, he generously shared insights into leadership, illuminating the diverse perspectives and styles inherent in effective leadership.

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in our charge,” Choon Chye said, quoting Simon Sinek.

Despite his ascent to a leadership role, Choon Chye remains grounded, never losing sight of the journey that brought him to where he stands today. He acknowledges the hard work, dedication, and the invaluable support of his colleagues who have contributed to his success.

“We never truly achieve on our own. Only when we come together can true transformation take place,” he said.

Choon Chye's ongoing leadership reminds us of the importance of leading with heart and compassion. There is still much to learn for Choon Chye, and the same can be said for the rest of us.

View details
Opinions 04 Aug 2023

Continuously Transforming Myself to Keep Abreast of Cybersecurity

By Kenneth Choo, Deputy Director, Cyber & Governance, Digital Technology, NTUC LearningHub

Embarking on a learning journey can be one of the most significant life investments that allow us to explore our passions, develop our skills, and shape our future in an introspective and transformative way. In this reflective piece, I will share my personal story and the impact continuous learning has had on both my personal life and career, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. I hope this can motivate others to seize new opportunities and invest in themselves to grow and succeed.

My journey in the world of technology started with managing Information Technology (IT) infrastructure and operations. Then, I became aware of the significant role technology plays in our lives and the increasing need for robust security measures. Having the privilege to work across various industries from Healthtech, and to now Edtech for nearly 20 years, I witnessed the evolution of cyber threats and the potential risks they posed to organisations. This sparked my growing interest in cybersecurity even further. 

I realise that cybersecurity is not just a technical field but a critical aspect for business operations to run seamlessly. By specialising in this field, I play a more direct role in protecting digital systems and data from malicious attacks. I also appreciate the unique community of cybersecurity, where like-minded professionals come together easily to share knowledge and secure the ecosystem as a whole. 

The best of both worlds
Throughout my career, various significant milestones shaped my path and propelled me forward in my pursuit of the cybersecurity domain. Having worked in the public and private sectors, I am able to compare the distinct differences, yet equally dynamic and challenging landscapes.

In the private sector, organisations are mainly driven by factors such as sales, profitability, and market competition. As businesses embark on digital transformation and rely on digital platforms to sell their products or provide their services, the need to implement robust cybersecurity measures becomes of paramount importance. However, more often than not, organisations are playing catch-up in this area and face a constant battle against cyber threats such as data breaches and ransomware attacks, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The increased focus on tightened regulation and personal data protection, such as the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), further amplifies these challenges. It can be challenging to achieve a good balance in the investment of cyber measures versus other areas of the business as well, and it is always tough to determine if the investment is adequate. To overcome this issue, the cybersecurity trend in recent years is towards a risk-bask approach, where practitioners identify assets of higher risk by value and apply the appropriate controls based on the risk level. This approach helps provide better guidelines and enables organisations to allocate their cybersecurity resources more effectively.

On the other hand, the public sector operates within a unique landscape with different objectives. At the broad level, it focuses on digitalising Singapore towards becoming a Smart Nation and using technology to improve citizens’ life. At the same time, they are also responsible for securing our critical infrastructure (such as power, transport, and healthcare) and protecting our sensitive information from sophisticated attackers. A successful cyberattack on a government system can have far-reaching and adverse repercussions, impacting citizen safety and the nation's reputation.

It was intriguing to witness the growing importance of cybersecurity in different sectors and the critical need for skilled professionals to safeguard vital information and infrastructure. This demand is still growing positively today and there is a need to have a bigger pool of experts in this domain to ensure businesses have the capability to protect themselves from cyberattacks, as more companies continue in their digital transformation journey.  

You are only as strong as your weakest link
In one of my previous roles, I witnessed a cyberattack initiated by a malicious actor planting a harmful thumb drive into an unattended and unsecured workstation. To mitigate the impact of this incident, the team responded by isolating the affected personal computer (PC), connected machines, and network for several hours. The operations team had to resort to manual processes to carry out their daily tasks, causing the support team to handle over a hundred customer complaint emails. Fortunately, the containment measures were implemented promptly, preventing sensitive data exfiltration. However, the organisation still experienced financial and reputational consequences from this incident.

In 2018, we also witnessed the significant impact of a cyberattack in Singapore's local public healthcare sector. This incident brought about a drastic transformation of the entire healthcare landscape, emphasising the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard patient and health data. The attack originated by exploiting a vulnerability in a workstation, believed to be through an email phishing attack, and progressed through a series of steps and tools, ultimately resulting in the exfiltration of 1.5 million patient records. The incident had evident operational, financial, and reputational consequences, clearly demonstrating the sophistication of modern attackers and the advanced tools they employ. 

Once again, this serves as a good reminder of the importance of securing all potential connections to our corporate network and not overlooking any potential weak link. We must always bear in mind that attackers are continuously targeting the weakest links. A good cybersecurity practitioner should always comprehensively assess the entire attack surface and adopt a mindset similar to that of an attacker. By doing so, we can better identify and understand potential vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and entry points malicious actors may exploit.

With evolving technologies such as Web 3.0, quantum computing, increased adoption of IoT technologies, and even artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots such as ChatGPT, cyber concerns will undoubtedly become more elevated and sophisticated. While ChatGPT can be used by many to improve their work, it is also a double-edged sword. For example, threat actors can easily obtain reconnaissance data, such as Internet Protocol (IP) address ranges, domain names, operating system vulnerabilities, etc. all within a single platform. It is also possible for threat actors to use ChatGPT in their weaponisation, delivery and exploitation stages, hence fast-tracking their attack chain. 

Finding opportunities in the pandemic
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many companies were forced to adapt and expedite their digitalisation journey for survival. As the reliance on digital platforms and networks grew intensively, the importance of cybersecurity also increased exponentially. During the lockdown period and the transition to remote work arrangement, I realised that a unique opportunity arises. As some people might perceive this time as a setback, I chose to view it as a chance to further invest in my personal growth and learning. 

With the reclaimed time from commuting and social engagement, I committed myself to various courses, dedicating weekends, and free hours to further upskill myself and broaden my portfolio. In addition to cybersecurity-related courses, I also explored other areas such as attending mindfulness workshops which helped to improve myself as an individual too. By doing this, I believe that I can position myself to thrive in the new norm and possibly open myself to more opportunities when the pandemic ends. 

Seek out the silver lining and invest in yourself
My journey in cybersecurity, fuelled by a strong belief in lifelong learning, has been transformative. Besides shaping my skill set and broadening my perspective, it has also empowered me to make a difference in safeguarding digital systems and data.  
By embracing opportunities, investing in myself, and prioritising continuous learning, I have grown both personally and professionally. As I reflect upon my journey, I am more convinced of the profound impact continuous learning has on our lives. 

I encourage everyone, regardless of the field or industry you come from, to embark on your own journey of growth and transformation. Even during challenging times, it is essential to constantly embrace opportunities and seek out the silver lining behind them. Most importantly, invest in yourself and prioritise continuous learning as a pathway to success, self-fulfilment and making a positive impact in your role. 

To my fellow cybersecurity practitioners, I encourage all to foster a collaborative and supportive mindset by sharing our knowledge and experiences whenever possible. Additionally, we should constantly nurture the next generation to ensure a robust pool of cybersecurity experts.
 
Let us embark on this lifelong learning journey together, where each step propels us closer to unlocking our full potential.

View details
Opinions 01 Jun 2023

In Conversation with Mr Jeremy Ong, CEO, NTUC LearningHub

Photo Credit: NTUC LearningHub



Amidst the current geo-economic landscape and digital age, NTUC LearningHub upholds its mission of “Every Worker a Better Worker, Every Job a Better Job, and Every Company a Better Company”, by supporting and empowering workers and businesses through relevant and in-demand skills training.

Our CEO, Mr Jeremy Ong, was invited to share his insights in a special feature article by JobStreet Singapore, where he shared his outlook on the adult education and employment landscape in Singapore, as well as the role NTUC LearningHub plays in championing lifelong learning and employability.

He revealed that programming, data analysis, and agile are among the top courses and emphasised the importance of acquiring tech-lite skills and critical core skills (or soft skills) that are transferrable across job roles and industries. In empowering the workforce to cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, Mr Ong shared how the NTUC LearningHub Learning eXperience Platform (LXP) brings the “classroom into your pocket” such that time-pressed learners can continue to upskill and reskill at their own pace, anytime and anywhere.

Check out the full feature at: https://www.jobstreet.com.sg/career-resources/plan-your-career/conversation-ceo-ntuc-learninghub/

View details
Opinions 21 Apr 2023

How Coaching Others Has Empowered Me Professionally

By Joe Leong, Product Manager, Core Skills Academy, NTUC LearningHub
 

In my previous role as a career coach, I have been fortunate enough to help many individuals achieve their career goals and improve their livelihoods. However, little did I know that becoming a career coach would positively impact my professional development and boost my confidence at the workplace.

I started my career in manufacturing, providing backend support for processes and machines. After nearly a decade, I found that relating to people was more my strength than working with machines, hence I pivoted to a career in recruitment. In the beginning, I found the job very challenging because I was not used to the competitive and stressful nature of a sales role. Thankfully, I had a great and understanding boss who coached and gave me much encouragement.

Struggling with imposter syndrome
As a career coach, my goal was to help people find meaningful jobs. While I was confident in the role, I had my own set of insecurities and doubts about my abilities. Internally I struggled with Imposter Syndrome when I could not see how my work translated into results that impacted others positively. This crippling feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt at times stopped me from embracing new challenges and possibilities.

Surprisingly, I was not the only one. Even famous individuals such as leaders, entrepreneurs and celebrities also struggled with Imposter Syndrome. These individuals have spoken publicly about their struggles, including Serena Williams, Tom Hanks, Michelle Obama, and even Albert Einstein. For Einstein, despite being acknowledged as one of history's finest physicists, reportedly battled feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt throughout his professional life.

Coaching others and myself
Over time, I learned to recognise and manage my own insecurities and self-doubt. As I started working more with my clients, I realised that I actually had a lot of valuable insights and experiences to share that could make a real difference in their lives. Helping others build confidence in their abilities and find clarity in their career goals, made me reflect on my own strengths and achievements. I started to recognise the unique value I brought to the table and how my own experiences and expertise could provide a learning platform for others.

In the process of coaching and understanding clients, I noticed patterns in their struggles and successes. I also gained a deeper understanding of the job market, the hiring process, and what employers seek in a candidate. I started to recognise the importance of lifelong learning, networking, personal branding, and possessing strong adaptive skills to ensure lifelong employability.

This newfound knowledge made me a better coach and opened the pathway towards gaining confidence as a professional coach. At the same time, I applied these insights and strategies to my own career, including proactively seeking out new opportunities to stretch myself beyond my comfort zone. For example, I enrolled in relevant online learnings to occupy my evenings, involving myself in volunteer work to widen my network and connecting and engaging with subject matter experts on LinkedIn.

Utilising coaching skills such as listening and asking questions, has increased my confidence through the positive feedback I received. Hearing kind words from clients who have found success in their careers after working with me has been incredibly rewarding. Knowing that I have played a key role with coaching has given me a sense of pride in my own abilities.

Empowering others to coach
Even though I am no longer working as a career coach, I am privileged to be involved with coaching in another meaningful way with NTUC LearningHub where together with my team, we provide upskilling opportunities to current and aspiring coaches, managers and leaders, equipping them to help others be better individuals in life and at the workplace.

Coaching has not only allowed me to help others achieve their career goals, but it has positively impacted my professional development and career. Through my work with coaching, I have gained a deeper appreciation of its benefits for others and myself. Most importantly, I have learned to recognise and appreciate my own strengths and achievements, which have all made me a more confident and empowered professional.

View details
Opinions 08 Mar 2023

It’s Not About Being the Best, But the Best Version of Yourself

By Isa Nasser, Director of Consumer Sales at NTUC LearningHub


From a boy who was often disciplined for not focusing on his studies, Isa shares his journey from his schooling days, a conversation that changed his life, and how he never stops learning, even as an accomplished tech professional.

Didn’t do well for O-Levels
Growing up, I attended a neighbourhood school, where I was surrounded by many passionate teachers. As a child, I wasn't particularly excited about learning, and was often disciplined for not completing my revisions. However, with the encouragement of my teachers and mother, I managed to do well in school. The incredible support system helped me get into Victoria School – my first-choice secondary school.

Victoria School was known for its talented and high-calibre educators. Unfortunately, during my time there, I found myself unable to do well academically. The culprit? Gaming. I was distracted by a first-person shooting game that was released during my secondary school years. I became obsessed with it, and as a result, was unable to focus on my studies. Due to my poor ‘O’ Level results, I was not able to gain admission to the Junior College of my choice and was instead admitted to a local polytechnic.

At first, I felt disappointed and let down by my academic performance. Despite that, I chose to focus on the positives of polytechnic education, such as its vibrant campus life and hands-on learning experience. The course was not in vain, as I soon discovered my first passion in robotics and mechatronics. I worked hard, and it paid off. Back in those days, it was extremely difficult for someone from a polytechnic to gain admission to a local university, so when I was offered admission to the National University of Singapore (NUS), I was thrilled!

How a ‘C student’ inspired me
The transition to university, however, was a challenge. There was a gap between what I had learned in polytechnic and what was taught in university. At first, I felt that university was too demanding for me, and I wondered if I could even complete my degree.

But the direction of my entire life was transformed by a single, chance conversation.

To complete a particularly difficult C++ programming assignment, I sought the assistance of a friend enrolled in NUS' computer science programme. Afterwards, I asked him how well he had performed in his modules. His answer surprised me. While he scored well in most of his courses, he got Cs in some.

As a result, I began to wonder, "How can such a smart individual like him get Cs?" He explained to me that he studies harder for topics that interest him, and less for ones that do not. This strategy seemed like a terrible way to earn a degree. But the more I thought about it, the more I realised that there was more to it. Focusing on topics he was passionate about gave my friend an endless motivation and energy to learn.

I had an epiphany. I had been looking at my studies the wrong way. Instead of viewing courses as obstacles, I should have thought of them as knowledge brought to us by academic giants of the past. I needed to appreciate those past discoveries, put myself in the shoes of the inventors, and not take natural phenomena for granted. This change in mindset fuelled my future successes and taught me not to worry about failures.

With a renewed attitude and outlook on learning, I began to expand my knowledge beyond what was taught at university. I have, for example, used MATLAB to develop artificial intelligence that can tune electric motors on my own initiative, something beyond what was taught. Even though I was not the top student in my class, I found myself enriched with most knowledge during that semester.

I carried this attitude into my professional life as well. Having worked as an electrical engineer in an automation company for a number of years, I joined Ngee Ann Polytechnic as a lecturer. To make learning effective for young adults, I had to learn pedagogical design. I taught myself how to use the Unity game engine, and utilised these 3D environments to develop educational games.

Following my stint at the polytechnic, I worked at a Robotics and Automation training academy where I was able to design a course on Industry 4.0 for the Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) ULeap e-learning platform.

Receiving the Digital Training Transformation award from then NTUC Secretary-General Mr Chan Chun Sing

My team and I even won the Digital Training Transformation award, which I received from then NTUC Secretary-General Mr Chan Chun Sing. I reflected on how my gaming addiction, which impeded my studies then, was now the driving force behind my ability to create impactful games.

The skills I acquired at Ngee Ann Polytechnic and the Singapore Institute of Technology (University of Glasgow) as a lecturer, along with my coding expertise, enabled me to secure a position at NTUC LearningHub, a continuing education and training provider. Here I am able to utilise both my teaching and technical skills to help others upskill and pursue their interests in technology.

Discovering your interests through lifelong learning
Even today, I am always learning new skills, such as using Python to automate trades based on stock market data. I believe that one should never stop learning, and that the key to success is to find what interests you and dive deep into it. That's what I did, and it has led me to a fulfilling career and a lifetime of continuous learning.

My journey has been a testament to the importance of upskilling. It is not about being the best, but about being the best version of yourself. You should not be satisfied with what you already know and instead, always strive to learn more. And that's what I want to inspire others to do – never stop learning, growing, and challenging themselves.

Upskilling is more than just increasing your employability, it will increase your value as a person. It will enable you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. So, I encourage everyone out there to take the time to explore their interests and find their passions. It's never too late to start, and the rewards are boundless.

View details

Podcasts

Listen and subscribe to the ‘LHUB Conversations’ – a podcast series where we speak to industry experts on emerging trends and coveted jobs and skills.

Podcasts 27 May 2024

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Tourism

Featured guest: Lee Shi Ruh, President, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS)


The tourism landscape is rapidly evolving. In NTUC LearningHub’s latest Industry Insights report on Tourism, 57% of tourism leaders perceive that existing employees lack the depth of skills needed to meet changing trends. However, only about half of tourism leaders (48%) have provided their employees with tourism related training.

In this episode, we are joined by Ms Lee Shi Ruh, President, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) who shares her invaluable expertise on emerging trends and sustainability strategies for navigating the challenges facing the tourism sector. From cutting-edge innovations to responsible tourism practices, this episode will broaden your horizons and inspire you to explore the tourism industry with a fresh perspective.

Discover more from our Industry Insights report on Tourism here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/media/research-reports

View details
Podcasts 06 Feb 2024

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Cybersecurity

Featured guest: Clayton Jones, Managing Director, APAC, ISC2


Cybersecurity is a critical component of business strategy for organisations of all sizes and across sectors due to the rise of the digital economy where organisations embark on digital transformation and intensify their efforts in building a robust digital infrastructure.

In NTUC LearningHub's latest report on Cybersecurity, only 1 in 5 business leaders are prepared to manage cybersecurity threats. With a lack of specialised skilled talent within the organisation (52%), resources to train workforce (52%), and basic cybersecurity knowledge among employees (49%) being the top challenge in ensuring cybersecurity. 

In this episode, we speak with Clayton Jones, who represents ISC2, the world's leading member association for cybersecurity professionals. We discuss his thoughts on the current threats in cybersecurity and what companies can do to mitigate the shortage of skilled professionals in the security sector.  

Find out more about the report on Cybersecurity to uncover the latest insights and trends with NTUC LearningHub’s research reports here.

View details
Podcasts 22 Nov 2023

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Generative AI

Featured guest: A M Aditya, Co-founder and CTO at Xaltius & Xaltius Academy


Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted various sectors by automating routine tasks and augmenting human decision-making processes. Simultaneously, the advent of generative AI technologies, with the capability to create content, images, video, code and music, has brought forth a new paradigm of creativity and productivity.

In NTUC LearningHub's latest report on Future Jobs and Skills, business leaders generally hold positive views towards AI and Generative AI technologies. However, their concerns about security, legal and ethical issues remain in dealing with data. In this episode, we speak with data scientist AM Aditya to gain insights into the world of data science. 

Find out more about the report on Future Jobs and Skills to uncover the latest insights and trends with NTUC LearningHub’s research reports here.

View details
Podcasts 26 Sep 2023

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Digital Transformation

Featured guest: Koh Thong Boon, Head for Digital Transformation Solutions, NTUC LearningHub


Digital transformation (DT) involves people, processes, and technology working together. In NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB)'s latest report on Digital Transformation, 84% of business leaders believe external experts are necessary to analyse workforce skills gaps. Given that every company has its unique requirements, customisation is key. With the help of NTUC LHUB's expertise, businesses can create personalised learning solutions tailored to their needs. To gain further insight into the DT solutions offered by NTUC LHUB, we had the pleasure of interviewing Koh Thong Boon, Head of Digital Transformation Solutions at NTUC LHUB.

Find out more about the report on Digital Transformation and uncover the latest insights and trends with NTUC LearningHub’s research reports here.

View details
Podcasts 10 Aug 2023

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding Electric Vehicles

Featured guests: James Ng, Managing Director, BYD Singapore & Philippines and Roger Chan, Director of Engineering, BYD Singapore.

Singapore is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030. To achieve this goal, the automotive industry will shift towards electric vehicles. This transition requires workers in the automotive industry to acquire new competencies and skills related to electric vehicle maintenance and servicing. Upskilling and reskilling are crucial for workers to be job-ready when the momentum picks up. 

We spoke with James Ng, the Managing Director for Singapore and Philippines at electric automaker BYD, and Roger Chan, the Director of Engineering. During our conversation, we discussed the challenges that come with adopting electric vehicles, such as the need for charging infrastructure, and the training opportunities available for automotive workers as Singapore transitions to cleaner energy sources.

Find out more about the report on electric vehicles and uncover the latest insights and trends with NTUC LearningHub’s research reports here.

View details
Podcasts 16 Mar 2023

The LHUB Conversations - The Buzz Surrounding the Metaverse

Featured guests: Siddharth Jain, Chief Creative Director, Playware Studios and LDR Technology, and Shannon Tan, Head of Strategic Initiatives, LDR Technology.

The metaverse has been getting much buzz in recent years. A slow but growing number of consumers and brands are getting on board. As it evolves, it will improve work collaboration, expand the possibilities for learning and training, and bring a new experience in virtual interactions that is more immersive, diverse and innovative.

We spoke to Siddharth Jain and Shannon Tan recently and find out their views on the metaverse, and the many exciting possibilities it presents for businesses and organisations.

Find out more about the metaverse and uncover the latest insights and trends with NTUC LearningHub’s research reports here.

View details

LXP

Explore popular bite-sized courses, beginner guides, and tips for topic mastery to help you develop a habit of lifelong learning with LXP.

LXP 14 Sep 2023

Top 10 Technology and Adaptive Courses to Upskill Yourself

Digitalisation Cannot Truly Replace You

The growing pace of digitalization means that habitualising learning will be a mainstay. According to NTUC LearningHub’s latest report on Emerging Jobs and Skills, many workers have turned to upskilling opportunities outside the workplace due to concerns over the effects of digitalisation.

Yet, while the use of technology is important in achieving business outcomes, human capital remains at the heart of digitalisation. Human-centric skills are as pertinent as ever amidst the wave of digital transformation.  

While automation may perform repetitive technical duties efficiently without error, they are limited when it comes to complex tasks. Employees will need to take on higher-value jobs to add value to business processes where technologies fall short.

 

Acquiring New Skills as a Routine to Stay Employable

Many employers are now looking to hire candidates with a broader set of skills to take on hybrid roles, according to our Emerging Jobs and Skills report. What this means is that you should be constantly on the lookout for the latest employer-coveted skillsets in which to upskill yourself to boost your value to employers.                  

Currently, the job roles in-demand like data analysis, data visualisation and strategy & operations all require both technology and adaptive skills. Besides technology skills like cybersecurity and digital marketing, acquiring skills in areas like communications and problem-solving will make you much more adaptable, help you analyse situations critically and resolve them creatively.

Aligned with current in-demand skills and job trends, these top LXP – LHUB GO courses is a great place to start your learning journey.

Many are upskilling to boost their future employability and digital resilience. You definitely do not want to be missing out!

 

Top Technology Courses

Microsoft Excel provides you with a range of advanced functions that greatly extend its capabilities. Lean powerful analysis, forecasting, automation, and presentation techniques that offer wide-ranging business benefits in your work.

Course Title: Advanced Microsoft Excel 2019

Course Provider: Filtered

Format: Course

    

 

 

Delve into the world of coding, starting off with Python programming. You will learn simple, versatile, and highly readable code that you can execute on a wide variety of systems quickly and easily.

Course Title:  Python Programming for Beginners

Course Provider: Stone River eLearning 

Format: Course 

 

Everyone in the workplace has a role to play in information security. You can take the first step in reducing the risk of data breaches by learning what they are and being aware of how they typically occur, so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent them from taking place in the future.

Course Title: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Course Provider: GRC Solutions

Format: Interactive 

 


 

 


 

 

The technology behind cryptocurrency is known as blockchain, and it has created fresh opportunities for businesses and financial institutions around the world. You will learn about how blockchain works, why it's gaining popularity, and how it's being used in organisations today.

Course Title: What is Blockchain

Course Provider: Enspark

Format: Interactive

 

Learn an overview of digital marketing and what it encompasses. You will gain an understanding of digital marketing channels and partake in SWOT and PESTEL analysis. 

Course Title: Introduction to Digital Marketing

Course Provider: Left Bank 

Format: Interactive

 


 

Top Adaptive Courses

In this course, you will investigate self-management (or self-regulation), which is the second of three key areas of personal skills that make up Emotional Intelligence. Learn how you would control and manage yourself and your emotions, inner resources, and abilities

Course Title: EQ and Self-management

Course Provider: Interaction Training

Format: Course

    

 

 

Now, you can add "project manager" to your skillset and see your career success grow and your professional satisfaction reach new heights - while your stress levels fade away. Learn how to ensure better quality, lower costs, and shorter turnarounds with this course.

Course Title:  Project Management Essentials

Course Provider: SkillPath 

Format: Course 

 

You can now master the five simple steps in design thinking. Learn to implement it successfully in your workplace and reap its benefits.

Course Title: Why Design Thinking?

Course Provider: Vado

Format: Interactive 

 


 

 


 

 

You will learn the basics of how and why digital notification can create stress. You'll identify your stressors, learn how to set healthy tech boundaries, clear your inbox and declutter your online life. We'll look at the importance of a 'digital detox' and how you can do it with ease.

Course Title: Managing Digital Stress

Course Provider: The Expert Academy

Format: Interactive

 

You will learn key aspects of communication and how to make it effective. Build an understanding of how to make it effective. Build an understanding of how people modulate their language and interpret their differences in tone.

Course Title: 10 Minutes Communication Skills

Course Provider: Learning Planet

Format: Course

 


 

These courses are specially designed and critically curated to help you acquire the technological and adaptive skills you will need to thrive in the face of digitalisation. Gain access to over 75,000 courses on LXP and develop new competencies to match the pace of technological change.

To learn more or subscribe to LXP, visit https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lxp

View details
LXP 29 Oct 2021

Five Simple Steps to Grasp Design Thinking

A new way of organisation workflow has led to extraordinary results and drastic improvements; Design Thinking has fast become a trusted approach for employees to be innovative and creative in their work. Some of the world's leading brands, such as Apple, Google and Samsung have rapidly adopted the Design Thinking approach, and it is currently being taught at some of the world's foremost universities like Harvard and MIT[1].

Design Thinking is an iterative process which revolves around the user at its core. It provides a solution-based approach to solving problems, which will help you redefine problems at work to identify alternative strategies and solutions not apparent with your initial level of understanding. Learn more about the origins of Design Thinking and how it has evolved to become one of the most creative problem-solving methodologies in the modern workplace with the 'What is Design Thinking' course by Vado, the top content provider on Design Thinking available on LHUB GO Infinity.

Course Title: What is Design Thinking?  

Course Provider: Vado 

Course Type:  Interactive

Why is Design Thinking Important?

Why are more and more industries talking about Design Thinking and how can it benefit you? That is the million-dollar question. When we come across problems at work, we define and implement obvious conventional methods to find solutions. Design Thinking will help you to brainstorm to develop original ideas instead, engaging you in the process of evaluating and resolving daily challenges creatively. It will help you develop problem-solving skills highly coveted by businesses and the ability to think critically. Finally, Design Thinking will aid you in achieving different professional perspectives, which will benefit not only you, but the company or organisation you work in. To discover more reasons why you should learn Design Thinking, start with the course, 'Why Design Thinking' by Vado.

Course Title: Why Design Thinking?

Course Provider: Vado

Course Type:  Interactive

A Beginner's Guide to the Design Thinking Process

1. Empathise

The first stage of Design Thinking involves getting to know your end-users and their experiences in detail. This stage is crucial for you to start developing truly effective human-centric solutions. Discover how you can conduct tasks to execute the right strategies and tactics in your work.

Course Title: The Design Thinking Process: Empathise

Course Provider: Vado

Format: Interactive 

    

 

 


 

2. Define

This stage is about your users' needs, the problems they face, and the insights you stand to gain. Learn how to define and specify the exact issues and challenges you will face at work in order to brainstorm appropriate solutions.

Course Title: The Design Thinking Process: Define

Course Provider: Vado 

Format: Interactive 

3. Ideate

Ideate feeds off the information gathered in the previous two stages in order to manifest potential solutions. In this stage, you will challenge assumptions and create innovative ideas. Take authority over your ideas, solutions and overcome convention.

Course Title: The Design Thinking Process: Ideate

Course Provider: Vado 

Format: Interactive 

 


 

 


 

4. Prototype

This is the stage where your creative solutions start to take shape. Learn to bring your ideas to life without having to invest large amounts of time and resources to build completed versions of your plan.

Course Title: The Design Thinking Process: Prototype

Course Provider: Vado 

Format: Interactive

5. Test

The final stage is all about placing your ideas into the hands of your users. Observe the effectiveness of your creative solutions and experience the joy and satisfaction of achievement.

Course Title: The Design Thinking Process: Test

Course Provider: Vado 

Format: Interactive

 


 

 

Design Thinking allows you to gain different perspectives to various workplace issues, boosting your creativity and critical problem-solving skills. Gain access to over 75,000 courses on LHUB GO Infinity to lay down a strong foundation and implement a robust framework for yourself with Design Thinking. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

[1] LinkedIn. 2021. Design Thinking – A Persuasive Strategy for Innovation. [Accessed 19 October 2021]

View details
LXP 07 Oct 2021

How to Future-proof Your Career with Digital Transformation

Even before the pandemic, new and transformative systems and technologies were swiftly implemented in the business world, empowering companies to reinvent, innovate and succeed in an increasingly digital world. Propelled by the pandemic, technology advancements which were supposed to take years have now been accelerated to just a matter of months.

What is Digital Transformation?

Digital transformation is not a new fad in the business arena. The concept has been around since the mid-2000s. Digital transformation refers to the adoption of digital solutions to transform the services or operations of businesses. The realisation of the vision requires strong commitment from corporate leadership to effect a shift in paradigm across the organisation. From Human Resources, Operations to Marketing and Sales, all divisions will need to adopt fundamental shifts in daily work processes as well as the tools and platforms used.

Digital transformation allows us to push the boundaries of technology, challenge the status quo, discover news ways of optimising the business infrastructure, and redefine efficiency in business practices. To learn the fundamentals, start with the course, ‘What is Digital Transformation’ by Enspark, the top content provider on digital transformation.  

Course Title: What is Digital Transformation?

Course Provider: Enspark  

Course Type:  Interactive

 

Why should you be concerned about digital transformation?

In an increasingly connected world, digital transformation has become the main driving force behind business innovation and change. Limitless access to information and the seamless transition of technology has increased expectations at the workplace where you are now expected to have digital prowess. It is now more important than ever for you to make thoughtful decisions about transforming yourself digitally to remain relevant.

Embracing digital transformation secures a wide range of benefits for you too. Developing a digital culture encourages innovation and creativity. As conventional methods and processes become more automated, you will discover more flexibility and autonomy in your role and responsibilities at the workplace. Not only is communication enhanced, but your employee experience will be heightened by digital transformation as well. If you would like to learn more about the importance of embracing digital change, ‘Benefits of a Digital Corporate Culture’ by Enspark is a great place to start.

Course Title: Benefits of a Digital Corporate Culture

Course Provider: Enspark  

Course Type:  Interactive

 

How to jumpstart your digital transformation journey?

By embracing technology, you can increase your work productivity, learn to use analytic tools to gain data insights, train your agility, work mobility, and increase your digital repertoire. If you’re new to the world of digital transformation, there are three key domains to consider – Big Data, Blockchain and the Internet of Things. Here are some of our recommended bite-sized courses to help you get started.

Big Data

Big Data refers to the use of computers to analyse vast amount of information and identify patterns. Discover how Big Data is transforming your industry and find out how you can harness modern technology to improve services and operations.

Course Title: Digital Transformation: What is Big Data?

Course Provider: Enspark 

Format:  Interactive 

Blockchain

Interested in crytocurrency? The technology behind cryptocurrency is known as blockchain, and it has created fresh opportunities for businesses around the world. Uncover the reasons for its growing popularity and learn about the financial opportunities it can bring you.

Course Title: Digital Transformation: What is Blockchain?

Course Provider: Enspark 

Format:  Interactive 

The Internet of Things

We live in a connected world where devices can connect to the internet and send information to people, devices and systems. This network of connected “things” is known as The Internet of Things or IoT. Learn about the evolution of the Internet and how it will impact you.

Course Title: Digital Transformation: The Internet of Things
 

Course Provider: Enspark 

Format:  Interactive 

Regardless of being a business owner or employee, digital transformation will have a lasting impact on you. Get a head start on digital transformation by trying out our recommended courses. Gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go

View details
LXP 23 Sep 2021

How to Harness the Power of Emotional Intelligence at Work

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is about the ability to recognise, understand and manage our own emotions and the emotions of others. Daniel Goleman, a psychologist and author who first introduced and popularised the concept, identified that there are four key domains that make up emotional intelligence. They include self-awareness and self-regulation which deal with managing one’s personal emotions, as well as empathy and relationship management which relates to the emotions of others.  

If you would like to have a deeper look into what emotional intelligence entails, these courses allow learners to understand the concept itself, how it differs from other forms of intelligence as well as some benefits associated with emotional intelligence .  

Course Title: Using Emotional Intelligence: Introduction (Part 1 of 8)   

Course Provider: BizLibrary  

Course Type: Interactive

 

Course Title: Introduction to Emotional Intelligence 

Course Provider: Talent Quest 

Format: Interactive

Why is emotional intelligence important at the workplace?

Given the rise of cross functional teams and collaborative ways of work, emotional intelligence has become more essential in the workplace than ever before. Emotional intelligence can help you to better navigate through the myriad of exchanges and activities at work. For example, emotional intelligence can aid in resolving conflicts and decision-making by preventing judgement from being clouded or emotionally charged.  

Emotional intelligence is a valuable skill which has vast impact on various facets of the workplace. It helps to build rapport with colleagues and business partners by improving one’s communication, collaborative, and relationship management skills. Emotional intelligence also improves negotiation and problem-solving skills which are important to achieving strong business outcomes.  

For those in leadership or managerial positions, emotional intelligence plays an even greater role as these roles are essentially about managing people. An understanding of emotional intelligence enables leaders to better manage their emotions and that of the team. While most leaders tend to focus solely on the performance of the teams, leaders should cultivate better relationships and understand their team inside and out.  

This helps to cultivate a psychologically safe environment at work and encourages team members to strive through adversity. With the conducive working environment and greater compassion towards the team, emotionally intelligent leaders can effectively improve employee retention as well.   

How can one develop emotional intelligence?

Given the breadth and depth of the concept, improving all four pillars of emotional intelligence is key. We recommend the ‘Using Emotional Intelligence’ eight-part video series by BizLibrary as a starting point. Through this interactive course, learners can look forward to discovering various tools and tips to strategically develop all four facets of emotional intelligence.  

1. Self-Awareness

Developing your self-awareness sets the foundation towards increasing emotional intelligence. It is the ability to identify and understand what triggers your emotions. At this stage, you should be asking yourself questions such as ‘What am I feeling’ and ‘Why am I feeling this way’. Penning down these emotions and underlying reason for the emotion experienced can help to boost your self-awareness. For more tips, ‘Improving Your Self Awareness’ by BizLibrary allows learners to understand themselves inside and out.  

Course Title: Using Emotional Intelligence: Improving Your Self-Awareness (Part 2 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary 

Format: Interactive 

 

2. Self-Regulation

Self-regulation refers to having the power to pause between feeling an emotion and reacting to it. This is an important aspect as it helps you to control disruptive emotions and impulses, thereby preventing rash decision making at work. One way to practice self-regulation is to explore techniques to release workplace stress such as taking up a new hobby or exercising. The interactive course by BizLibrary on ‘Improving Your Self-Management’ gives leaners a deeper insight into the different ways to practice emotion regulation.  

Course Title: Using Emotional Intelligence: Improving Your Self-Management (Part 3 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary 

Format: Interactive 

 

3. Empathy

The third domain to develop emotional intelligence is empathy which is the ability to sense the feelings of others, understand their perspectives and how you respond to them. To increase empathy and perspective taking, try engaging in active listening as you interact with others. This entails asking questions and providing feedback which helps you to pay more attention to both verbal and nonverbal communication. To find out more, ‘Improving Your Social Awareness’ and ‘Social Awareness Tools’ by BizLibrary provides useful tips and practices on how to develop greater empathy.  

Course Title:  Using Emotional Intelligence: Improving Your Social Awareness (Part 4 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary  

Course Type: Interactive  

 

Course Title:  Using Emotional Intelligence: Social Awareness Tools (Part 5 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary 

Course Type: Interactive 

 

4. Relationship Management

Relationship management is the ability to read situations and modify your response, navigate conflict skilfully and communicate effectively. A widely used tool for enhancing empathy is the DISC assessment which provides insights into your personal behaviour when interacting with others. Here are some of the recommended courses on LHUB GO Infinity to help you build stronger work relationships and social skills.  

Course Title:  Using Emotional Intelligence: Building Strong Personal Relationships (Part 6 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary  

Course Type: Interactive  

 

Course Title:  Using Emotional Intelligence: Building Strong Professional Relationships (Part 7 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary 

Course Type: Interactive 

 

Course Title:  Using Emotional Intelligence: Using DISC to Raise Your Emotional IQ (Part 8 of 8)  

Course Provider: BizLibrary  

Course Type: Interactive  

 

While emotional intelligence may come naturally to some, emotional intelligence can be cultivated through practice. While the methods we suggested are not exhaustive, it is important for you to find a method that suits your emotional well-being.  

Understand your own emotional intelligence and gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: /lhub-go/

View details
LXP 09 Jul 2021

A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering the Agile Methodology

What is the Agile Methodology?

The Agile methodology is a practice in the software industry which contains various frameworks for product development and teamwork. It is the ability to deal with change throughout a project, and overcome obstacles faced along the way.  

As Agile has developed into a practice for a range of industries, from marketing to human resource, Agile is a flexible tool for any employee working in teams. It encourages people to take a human-based approach, by solving problems through collaboration and self-organisation. This would be especially helpful given the rise of cross-functional collaboration.  

Why pick up Agile?

Agile encourages people to be productive and efficient through applying different frameworks such as Scrum or Feature-Driven Development to their own work. Being equipped with Agile also allows you to stand out from jobseekers or other colleagues by showing your ability to adapt and transition in the workplace. You can further set yourself apart by gaining industry-related Agile skills, such as Marketing or Business Agility. 

The Agile methodology also helps in improving one’s self-organisation where employees can better manage their time and tasks. Methods such as the Kanban board, a popular software development methodology adopted by agile teams, works well for individuals as it motivates them to complete and move more tasks across the board. As work-from-home arrangements continue in many workplaces, it’s important to be mindful of time when approaching various tasks. 

If you would like a preview of Agile, ‘Getting Flex-Agile’ by Symmetra and ‘Developing and Supporting an Agile Mind-set’ by Skillsoft are courses for prospective project managers or individuals who are looking to upskill in Agile. These courses give an overview of Agile and how to build an Agile mindset.  

Course Title: Getting Flex-Agile  

Course Provider: Symmetra 

Course Type: Interactive

Course Title: Developing and Supporting an Agile Mind-set 

Course Provider: Skillsoft 

Format: Interactive 

How does Agile benefit the workplace?

The Agile methodology has been on the rise for most businesses due the benefits of improving employee productivity. As businesses begin and continue to take up more collaborative ways of work, cross-functional projects are increasingly becoming a norm. Regardless of whether you are leading or contributing to these projects, Agile helps promote better team coordination to get the work done effectively and efficiently.  

Focusing on project management, the Agile methodology can be applied to most forms of work through problem solving and teamwork. Employees are encouraged to be creative and contribute extensively to these projects, creating the best results possible. For example, quality-control and a step-by-step progress is carried out by everyone in the team, to ensure that there are reduced risks when the project is executed. By applying the Agile methodology at the workplace, teams will see continuous improvements in their work. 

To find out more on how Agile can improve your way of work, ‘The Benefits of Agile Project Management’ by 365 Career and ‘Introduction to Agile Project Management’ by Mind Channel allows learners to understand the flexibility of Agile as a team, and how it can benefit them in the long run. 

Course Title: The Benefits of Agile Project Management  

Course Provider: 365 Career 

Format: Video 

 

Course Title: Introduction to Agile Project Management  

Course Provider: Mind Channel 

Course Type: Video 

How can I start?

To get started, first determine which Agile certifications can enhance your current skillset. Do you wish to take the lead in projects and manage different roles? Or do you intend to start a business but are uncertain of how to make your ideas work? From Agile Team Facilitation to Business Agility, there will be courses that suits your needs.  

While spending a day or two for courses is often perceived as time consuming, you may want to explore the many short online courses instead. For starters, LHUB GO Infinity has over hundreds of bite-sized Agile courses, ranging in topics and duration to suit your own schedule. Regardless of your skillset or preferred industry, there will be a course suitable just for you. 

 Here are some of our recommended Agile courses on LHUB GO Infinity. ‘iSQL Certified Agile Business Analysis – Introduction’ by Planit is a course that dives into Agile for Business Analysts who are adapting into new workplaces equipped with Agile. For ‘Agile Software Development Methodologies’ by Skillsoft, this course focuses on the methodologies and mindset that can help Software Developers in their line of work.  

Course Title: iSQI Certified Agile Business Analysis – Introduction  

Course Provider: Planit 

Course Type: Interactive  

Course Title: Agile Software Development Methodologies  

Course Provider: SkillSoft 

Course Type: Interactive 

Regardless of a business owner or a software developer, Agile is adaptable in different job scopes and work styles and can work for you.  

Get a head start on the Agile methodology and try out these Agile courses today. Gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

View details
LXP 11 Jun 2021

10 Courses under 10 Minutes with LHUB GO Infinity

Upskilling is common nowadays, especially with employees upskilling in their own time. While upskilling on your own accord allows you to be independent, setting large pockets of time for learning may not be ideal for everyone. Even with online courses, some courses may take up to a few hours to complete. 

On LHUB GO Infinity, courses range from topic, duration and even format to fit learning into everyone’s lifestyle. From over 75,000 courses, we have picked out 10 different courses to quench your thirst for learning in under 10 minutes!

From life skills to digital skills, here is our list of 10 courses under 10 minutes for you to start your learning journey!

Funnel questions is a technique used by investigators and detectives. With this course, you can expect to learn the basics of funnel questions and how it enables you to obtain details and better answers from your respondents.

Suitable for improving effective communication, be it between co-workers or when speaking to new candidates.

Course Title: 6. Creating A Powerful First Impression & Opening (10 minutes)
Course Provider: Learning Planet
Format Type: Video
Skills Focus: Critical Thinking, Interview Skills  

Having good decision-making skills is important in choosing rational steps that can affect your work. Now, better decisions are made from data and research. While some decisions do not require extensive information, knowing how to make better choices can improve your work-life.

In just one minute, this course will touch on 5 steps that will improve your daily life, such as seeking perspective from others and determining if some decisions can be handled by others.

Course Title: 1 Minute Better Decision Making
Course Provider: Learning Planet
Format Type: Video 
Skills Focus: Critical Thinking Skills

3.1 Minute Time Batching (1 minute)

If working from home has become a distraction, this is the course for you. When facing multiple deadlines and many different tasks, it gets difficult to zero in on the task at hand.

Time batching is when you group tasks according to their objectives or deadlines, so that it is simpler to focus on completing the tasks. It also helps you to schedule your day, even when unexpected tasks are assigned. 

Course Title: 1 Minute Time Batching
Course Provider: Learning Planet
Format Type: Video
Skills Focus: Adaptive and Time Mangement Skills  

4. Hybrid Working 101 (3 minutes)

Although most of us have gotten used to working from home, some are planning to return to the office on a hybrid basis. This course comes in handy for those who need help in adapting to new working arrangements.

Covering topics such as virtual interviews and maintaining emotional intelligence, this course dives into the etiquette of working from home, as well as balancing productivity when working from home or the office.  

Course Title: Hybrid Working 101
Course Provider: iAM Learning
Format Type: Interactive Video
Skills Focus: Adaptive, Life Skills  

When sharing Excel sheets across the organisation, creating new sheets of data for different departments is a hassle. Additionally, sharing unnecessary data may stir up internal security issues.

With row-level security for Excel, you can hide data from different roles in the organisation with ease. For example, if you want to share data on product sales with the marketing team, row-level security enables you to hide data which is irrelevant to them.

 

By learning how to implement row-level security, you are one step closer to being an Excel master. 

Course Title: Implement row-level security 
Course Provider: Microsoft Learn
Format Type: Step-by-step Guide
Skills Focus: Digital and Excel Skills

Presenting to clients or colleagues may be nerve-wrecking. While creating beautiful slides with powerful content is important for any presentation, creating a lasting first impression is key in acing it.

Through this course, you will learn the importance of making a good first impression as well as how to portray confidence in doing so.

Once you have delivered a powerful first impression, your audience will perceive you more positively and be interested in listening to what you have to say.

Course Title: Creating A Powerful First Impression & Opening 
Course Provider: Skillshub
Format Type: Interactive Course 
Skills Focus: Presentation Skills 

7. 10 Minute Critical Thinking (10 minutes)

For those who want to go deeper into critical thinking, this course covers more on what critical thinking is and how it can be used in your day-to-day activities.

Understanding the problem and how data can be useful in problem solving are a necessary step before you can hone your decision-making skills.

 

Throughout the course, questions are given for you to reflect and process the information in the video, in turn cultivating a critical thinking mindset.   

Course Title: 10 Minute Critical Thinking 
Course Provider: Learning Planet
Format Type: Video 
Skills Focus: Adaptive Skills

8. Social Media, Screens & Teens (10 minutes)

Social media is a norm for everyone to have, especially teens. It has become a part of their lives and can affect their development in terms of mental and physical health.  

While we are constantly informed of how it negatively affects them, it is also important to understand how teens can use it to their advantage.

Through this course, you will learn how teens can balance social media usage and maintain a healthy relationship with social media and their digital devices.  

Course Title: Social Media, Screens & Teens 
Course Provider: iAM Learning
Format Type: Interactive Video 
Skills Focus: Life Skills

While interviews are common, having the proper skills to engage the interviewee is what makes an effective interview.

 

By learning from the perspective of the interviewer and interviewee, this course prepares you to conduct proper interviews and receive great answers that will help you in your research. Even after you have completed your research, these skills will come in handy the next time you carry out interviews. 

Course Title: 10 Minute Effective Research Interviews 
Course Provider: Learning Planet
Format Type: Video
Skills Focus: Research and Interview Skills

10. What is the Role of a Key Account Manager? (10 minutes)

Looking to be a key account manager? This course perfectly sums up the responsibilities of an account manager from the perspectives of both the organisation and customers.

While this role may vary in different organisations, a key account manager is someone who builds and maintains the relationships between clients and the organisation. They are also the ones who liaise directly with the clients according to their needs, be it for sales support or marketing.

With this course, you can better evaluate your skillsets and determine whether you have what it takes to be an effective key account manager.

Course Title: What is the Role of a Key Account Manager?
Course Provider: Skillshub
Format Type: Interactive Course
Skills Focus: Job Skills

Out of these 10 courses, there must be one that piques your attention. Sign up and gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

View details
LXP 04 Jun 2021

5 Adaptive Skills to Make Your Resume Stand Out

LHUB GO has been rebranded as the LHUB Learning eXperience Platform (LXP), the one-stop online mobile learning application for all your upskilling needs.  

 
As COVID-19 disrupts our modes of working, essential skills such as communicating with our co-workers and leadership come in handy in being part of effective teams. Employers have therefore been increasingly on the lookout for employees with the right adaptive skills to increase productivity.  

Unsure of which adaptive skills to pick up? Boost your skills according to NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB)’s latest Employer Skills Report, along with our course recommendations from LHUB GO Infinity – Singapore’s largest online learning platform with over 75,000 courses available on demand!  

1.Effective Communication

Voted by 68% of employers, effective communication is the top adaptive skill of 2021. When companies began transitioning to new modes of working, this skill has become key in maintaining pre-pandemic workplace camaraderie.

More than just telecommunication, effective communication can include conducting regular meetings to check in on one another. Regular check-ins give employees a safe space to resolve issues and engage with one another, even if they are done virtually. You can also get creative with how to keep work teams motivated and engaged by organising online bonding games and brunches.

Effective communication encourages employees to get to know their co-workers better and ultimately improve the social and emotional well-being of the team.

Improve on your effective communication skills with these courses:

2. Teamwork

Teamwork has maintained its position as the second most adaptive skill coveted by employers for the past two years. Voted by 55% of employers, teamwork is essential in maintaining a cohesive team.

As many employees begin to feel fatigue from working from home, their days feel repetitive with continuous virtual meetings and deadlines. This may cause employees to feel disengaged with others, and lose the human aspect of work.

To overcome this, good teamwork is essential to motivate employees to keep going and stay on the right track when it comes to tasks. This will improve workflow processes that may have been affected due to the pandemic restrictions.

To learn more about teamwork and ways to improve your team’s dynamics, we recommend these courses:

3. Leadership

The pandemic has boosted new ways of work across many workplaces. Managing a team has therefore changed through hybrid modes of working. Being able to not just lead projects but people, is especially important.

While anyone can become a leader, the best leaders are the ones with the right attitude and mindset to handle others. This includes being empathetic towards teammates you may now only see online.

As the pandemic presents new challenges, leaders today must be able to overcome the unpredictable future and continuously motivate their teams to achieve the best at work.

Want to develop the leader in you? Start with these courses:

4. Negotiation & Influencing Skills

Negotiation and influencing skills have risen in importance by 15%  since 2020. Although this skill is not new, it has become a valued skill today, as it shows one’s ability to achieve the best results at work

Having negotiation and influencing skills will allow you to hold constructive discussions and work through disagreements. Your communication skills will shine, as you are able to find the best solutions for different parties.

Negotiation and influencing skills can also encourage a more positive work culture where employees can initiate discussions without fearing the outcome.

Want to learn how to negotiate for the better?  Here are some courses that will help you:

5. Innovation

To inspire new ways of work, employees are encouraged to innovate changes in the workplace. More than just solving problems, innovation will also help to improve current work processes. For example, repetitive tasks are common in many workplaces, such as clerical work. To improve this, an automated process can be programmed to improve productivity of employees.

Regardless of the industry, innovation as a skill can introduce new ideas and processes to a company and may even change the work culture itself. Innovation also encourages employees to get creative and step up to new challenges.

Get innovative with these courses:

Now that you know the top skills, why not take up our recommended courses? Gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinity, or sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

 
View details
LXP 17 May 2021

Top 5 Digital Skills to Boost Your Resume

Upgrading yourself may be challenging, especially with the constantly evolving workplace demands across industries. With many companies taking the leap towards digitalisation, developing digital skills has become a hot topic amongst workers and employers.  

Unsure of which digital skills to pick up and boost your employability? Here are the top 5 digital skills of 2021 that will boost your resume, according to NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB)’s latest Employer Skills Report, along with our course recommendations from LHUB GO Infinity – Singapore’s largest online learning platform with over 75,000 courses available on demand!  

 

1. Digital Marketing

Voted by 50% of employers, digital marketing is the top digital skill in 2021. When the pandemic struck, everyone had to move online, be it for work or even leisure. We found ourselves looking at our mobile devices and laptops for hours every day, as we coped with living in a Covid-19 world 

Fortunately for businesses, it was an opportunity to digitalise their efforts, especially in the area of marketing. Digital marketing has grown in importance the past year, as companietry to grab customers’ attention online, from social media advertisements to producing attractive content fotheir products and services. 

Get started on Digital Marketing with these courses

2. Data Analysis

In the past year, data analysis has risen as the second most coveted digital skill by employers. Low-cost and effective for many businesses, this skill has gained even more traction when companieare faced with major economic shifts affecting their operations. 

As businesses become prudent with their resources, they begin to collect data to understand their customers needs and evaluate the success of previous projects. Data analysis also promotes further cost-saving through automation in the workplace, using platforms such as Python and Tableau. With data analysis, companies can better map out their business goals and strategies for the best outcomes. 

Keen on boosting your skills in data analytics? Here are our recommended courses: 

3. Project Management Skills

Many businesses have faced disruptions during the lockdown, where projects were halted indefinitely or stopped entirely. Workplaces continue to see major shifts in leadership roles and more responsibilities are placed on others to complete ongoing projects.  

Project management skills sees more demand as workers are needed to lead and take over new and ongoing projects effectively. As businesses continue to adapt to new ways of working remotely, project management skills have also evolved and it is increasingly crucial to manage projects and tasks online

To begin your upskilling journey, here are some courses to pick up: 

4. Basic IT Support

As workplaces continue to digitalise and automate, many employees still lack basic knowledge in technology and the internet. Businesses are also increasingly at risk of being exposed to technological dangers, such as data breaches and cyber hacking. Although most workplaces are equipped with an IT team, knowing the basics of IT can help employees work more efficiently and safelyBasic IT support is more than just software errors and failed login attempts. It can be as simple as discovering new tips and tricks on Microsoft Office applications, or as complex as managing access on Microsoft Teams or Skype. Knowing a thing or two can improve your productivity tremendously, and you may even find yourself helping other colleagues with their IT troubles.   

Whether you have a background in the IT field or not, there is always a skill for you to improve on. Here are some of our recommended courses

5. Data-Driven Decision Making Skills

As data analysis sees rise amidst the pandemic, being equipped with data-driven decision making skills are as important as knowing how to extract data. Even if businesses have an extensive range of data collected, decisions made from the data insights are what will affect the company tremendously 

While this skill may seem similar to data analytics, data-driven decision making focuses on being detail-oriented and translating data into actionable steps for the company to move forward with. This skill also encourages employees to be more experimental with their work in order to find out what works best for the business to strive.  

Choosing a course does not require you to analyse data, so here are some courses to start your learning journey

Now that you know the top skills, why not take up one of our recommended courses? Gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinityor sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

View details
LXP 10 May 2021

A Closer Look at LHUB GO Infinity

In February this year, we launched LHUB GO Infinity  Singapore’s largest subscription-based online learning platform. With the inevitable workplace transformation and evolving job roles in this post-pandemic era, learners are increasingly realising the need to continue taking up new skills and constantly updating their skill set.  

Ready to upskillFind out how LHUB GO Infinity can help in your journey towards acquiring in-demand competencies highly coveted by employers. 

1. Access to over 75,000 courses and more at your fingertips

LHUB GO Infinity boasts over 75,000 courses, with wide range of topics to diversify your skill set for the transforming future of work. The extensive list of courses offered caters to learners from different backgrounds and competency levels, from basic to advanced skills and knowledge

With courses created by world-class content providers such as Microsoft Learn, 365 Careers and BizLibrarylearners can enhance their employability with quality learning materials at their fingertips.  

2. Courses are mapped to skills in-demand

LHUB GO Infinity’s courses are carefully curated to ensure they meet the in-demand skills of employers across Singapore.  

In NTUC LearningHub’s Employer Skills Report 2021Effective Communication and Digital Marketing are identified as this year’s in-demand skills coveted by employers across various industries. To boost your Effective Communication skills, look out for Trust Building through Effective Communication by Skillsoft and Effective Business Communication by Vado on LHUB GO Infinity.  For Digital Marketing, ‘Introduction to Digital Marketing by Left Bank is great for beginners. If you only have five minutes to spare, Future of Digital Marketing by Sarder Learning will give you quick snapshot of Digital Marketing. 

To check out the other top in-demand skills you can learn, download NTUC LearningHub’s Employer Skills Report 2021 here 

3. Learn at your own time and pace

As we continue to transition into a hybrid mode of working, picking up new skills is made simpler through LHUB GO Infinity’s asynchronous learning. You can start and pause at any point of the course without worrying about where you last stopped.  

The courses are offered in ‘microlearning’ format, designed for bite-sized learning with durations ranging from as short as nine minutes to seven hours. From topics covered within five minutes to those that last for a few hours, you will get to decide how much time to set aside for the different courses of interest. 

So, whether you are commuting to work or having your lunch break, learn anywhere, anytime with LHUB GO Infinity. 

4. Enjoy personalised recommendations for your learning journey

Still unsure of which courses to take? LHUB GO Infinity allows you to personalise your learning journey, with a variety of topics and course providers to choose from. Filter your preferred topics and duration or even content type to find the perfect courses to match your learning style and needs. Learners can also select their topic of interests, and LHUB GO Infinity will do the rest to recommend the most suitable courses tailored specially for youThis way, you can enhance your employability by continuously exploring the platform and filling your own skills gaps. 

For example, if you are looking for a quick crash course on Microsoft Excel and its functionsover 2000 videos are available to cover the fundamentals of Microsoft Excel with a step-by-step guide in under five minutes. Some notable content providers for Microsoft-related content include 365 Careers, Mi-Crow and Mind Channel.  

With LHUB GO Infinity, learning is made accessible and seamless to anyone who seeks to diversify their skillsets.  

Gain access to over 75,000 courses today on LHUB GO Infinity today. To learn more about LHUB GO Infinityor sign up for a free trial, visit: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/lhub-go/

View details

For Learners

Learn about an array of topics, enriched by expert guidance and tips, to enhance your skills and employability.

For Learners 05 Sep 2024

Elevating Singaporean People Managers: Enhancing Job Performance and Team Success with HR Skills

Traditionally, the role of people managers was frequently taken on by non-specialised HR managers or by any manager with capacity and availability. This is still a prominent trend in the workplace today. That said, businesses will always have positions related to recruiting, empowering, and retaining employees. If those sound like your responsibilities, then without a doubt you are a people manager—even if it may not be your job title.

People managers in Singapore encounter various challenges that go beyond their struggle for recognition. Besides nurturing strong teams, they are also expected to accomplish this within the nation’s multicultural framework. They also have to contend with increasingly unhappy employees, with more than half of Singaporean workers expressing an intent to quit—a trend that poses a clear detriment to organisations throughout the country. To better meet these challenges, people managers should expand their HR skills and learn from instructors with multi-sectoral and cross-cultural perspectives.

The importance of HR skills
Human resource skills are crucial as they enable effective management of a company's most valuable asset: its employees. These HR skills encompass various areas of people management, from recruitment and employee communication to conflict resolution and fostering a positive work environment. By adeptly navigating these practices, HR professionals enhance employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity. They also help ensure alignment between organisational goals and individual aspirations, leading to higher retention rates and better talent development. 

Creating outstanding teams through Workforce Skills Qualifications course
Taking Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) certification courses in leadership and people management is an important step for ensuring people managers are qualified for their roles. However, to stand out from the crowd, it’s no longer enough for people managers to have basic HR qualifications. More advanced learning modules such as the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development) courses will not only empower people managers to develop more effective teams but also enable them to become more valuable assets to their organisations.

As the world’s oldest human resource-focused association, the CIPD is especially authoritative when it comes to HR and people management matters. People managers who are conferred certification for CIPD courses will be equipped to handle today’s most pressing employee development challenges. 

One of the primary areas for HR advancement that CIPD courses focus on is HR business partnering. Training in this area aims to develop HR business partners who can collaborate closely with business leaders to elevate workforce effectiveness, cultivate essential strategic human capital factors like talent, leadership, learning, and culture, and create effective people-centered strategies aimed at attaining the company's goals. 

Another area of focus is employee development, with special emphasis on alignment with digitalisation efforts and on using digital tools to support talents’ learning and development needs. The idea is to help employees keep pace with the rapidly evolving corporate landscape to ensure that reskilling efforts will be successful. 

Also critical to businesses today is employee wellness, which is another key area of attention for CIPD courses. The idea is that proper management of employee engagement and relations serves to strengthen the ties and interactions between employees, managers, and the organization, helping improve worker resilience and putting them in a better position to manage stress and burnout.

CIPD learning modules, such as those offered by NTUC LearningHub, can typically be taken in any order and are delivered either as virtual live classes or physical classes. 

How can CIPD courses support people managers?
Completing CIPD courses can help people managers stand out in several ways:

  1. Advanced Human Resource management skills. The CIPD’s learning and development courses are among the best regarded in the global HR community. Taking CIPD courses will not only teach learners advanced concepts but also shore up their basic HR skills. Learners can also expect exposure to emerging HR practices and technologies, further enabling them to build strong teams more efficiently and become more valuable assets to their organisations.
     
  2. Expanded professional networks. NTUC LearningHub and CIPD courses include plenty of opportunities for Singaporean people managers to interact with each other, particularly during physical classes. Learners will glean valuable insights about people management and HR from their instructors and fellow learners, many of whom will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. The networks formed through these classes may also raise people managers’ profiles and create avenues for professional advancement.
     
  3. Enhanced understanding of global HR practices. The CIPD maintains a global presence, with locations in Europe, East Asia, and the Middle East. It also maintains partnerships with educational institutions the world over, making it uniquely qualified to provide people managers with truly global insights. These perspectives are especially valuable to Singaporean people managers, as Singapore is home to over 37,000 international companies and 7,000 multinational corporations as well as many more that employ permanent residents and foreign workers. CIPD certification should, therefore, help people managers stand out in an increasingly multicultural environment.
     
  4. Credibility. As a UK HR institution, the CIPD is among the most respected in the world for HR-related knowledge and training. Certification from the association has a lot of weight, particularly in Singapore’s human resource management community. Having CIPD certification adds credibility to a people manager's profile, signalling to colleagues and superiors that they are well-equipped to handle modern people management challenges and responsibilities.

Distinguish yourself and build stronger teams with CIPD training
People manager roles may not be explicitly defined in every business or organisation, but the responsibilities of people management will always be present. Regardless of how roles are described or how an organisation is structured, there’s always someone who needs to onboard new talents, engage with employees, and develop roles and careers to suit the business’s goals. If these are your responsibilities, taking CIPD courses can help you deliver real value to your organisation as well as to the people under your care.
 
CIPD courses will also help you do much more than simply onboard and develop employees. They will also help you better identify and close gaps in your organisation’s capabilities at a macro level, enabling you to be a serious contributor to its growth. Your journey towards unlocking your team’s potential and nurturing a truly resilient organisation starts here.

Find out more about CIPD courses here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/topics/cipd-chartered-institute-of-personnel-development 

View details
For Learners 22 Aug 2024

Unravelling Cloud Computing Jobs in Singapore

The shift towards Cloud Computing
With the sheer mass of files and other data stored, retrieved from and modified on networks every second of the day, we would be constantly trudging through a mess of cables and bulky servers in freezing offices - if not for Cloud Computing. 

Cloud Computing, on the other hand, utilises a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to house, organise and utilise data, rather than the on-premises servers or desktop computers that Traditional Computing typically requires. 

Companies ranging from MNCs to start-ups have adopted Cloud Computing to tap upon its added efficiency for their business processes by cutting production costs, providing more allowance for collaboration, adding security layers and creating readily available data backups.

Cloud computing can be divided into 3 categories:

  • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) where a company provides storage, network, servers and virtualisation on cloud as a service on demand (pay-as-you-go) or as a subscription (e.g. Alibaba Elastic Compute, Amazon EC2 etc)
  • Platform as a Service (PaaS) where providers put together hardware and software tools to form a development and deployment environment online to build, test, deploy and scale their applications (e.g.  Amazon Web Services (AWS) Elastic Beanstalk, Microsoft Azure etc)
  • Software as a service (SaaS) solutions are typically applications hosted by a cloud provider and delivered to users all over the Internet, nulling the need to maintain and install the previously indispensable hardware and software (e.g. Adobe Suite, Salesforce etc)

Both consumers and businesses use cloud computing in one way or another, and there is huge demand in Singapore for Cloud Computing and the people who run it. 

Key developments in Cloud Computing
Whether you are seeking a career switch or are already preparing for a role in Cloud Computing, you should expect to enter a rapidly evolving landscape within various industries. Here are some of the key changes in Cloud Computing technology today: 

  1. Hyperscale facilities are data centres that are sprouting with the increased demand for cloud computing infrastructure and IoT functionality. They offer a unique combination of energy efficiency and functionality to reconcile complex ecosystems of physical and virtual platforms to advance the might of Cloud Computing. 

  2. Multicloud is when a company taps upon the infrastructures of two or more cloud providers so their applications can run efficiently. This arrangement can be more cost efficient with improved flexibility and security. 

  3. Hybrid cloud is a cloud environment that utilises two or more different cloud infrastructures (on-premises, private or public), accessible data, resources, or services to function as one homogenous technology. 

  4. Machine Learning (ML) is a core part of numerous applications today. Powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), ML allows different systems to learn behaviour and improve virtual experiences automatically. Cloud Computing eases adoption of ML by providing storage and security to access these applications through the cloud. Cloud Computing giants that have incorporated machine learning include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud.

When preparing for a job role in Cloud Computing, it is critical that you keep up to speed with changes in the industry and remain familiar with the above-mentioned leading cloud computing technologies that most of the world runs on.

3 key infrastructure roles in Cloud ComputingGiven the world’s dependence on IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, and now Anything as a Service (XaaS), job roles that require Cloud Computing skills are no longer limited to tech companies. Getting a Cloud Computing certification opens doors for you to play crucial roles in the data management of different types of companies. If you are keen to explore a career path in Cloud Computing, here are some of the pathways that you can potentially take and the corresponding job responsibilities:  

  1. Cloud Solutions Architect

    • Maintain security for the privacy of company’s Cloud database
    • Devise solutions for time-sensitive technical issues
    • Value-add to company’s infrastructure movement techniques such as major application transfers within the Cloud
    • Prepare or deliver company-wide cloud education and best practices
    • Strengthen relations with cloud providers and third-party services
       
  2. Cloud Administrator

    • Manoeuvre virtual machines and web applications
    • Upkeep cloud infrastructure services concurrently, on a daily basis
    • Provide technical assistance to cloud environments and solutions for operational issues
    • Shortlist effective tools for cloud storage management
       
  3. DevOps Engineer

    • Evaluate and develop methods to improve current systems and processes
    • Create and establish new development tools and infrastructures
    • Develop software updates and patches
    • Oversee code releases together with IT personnel
    • Strategise and manage development projects

These Cloud Computing job roles are not limited to tech companies either as the widespread demand for Cloud Computing professionals can be seen in an article on the energy industry in the US, where the Cloud is being used by the ‘unlikeliest’ of companies to create value by using data to keep an eye on their hardware infrastructure. This improves the efficiency of their complex energy systems (e.g. batteries, wells, stations), evaluates trends in supply and demand, optimises their processes in tandem with changes in energy market trading conditions and performs A/B testing for an optimal customer experience.

Cloud Computing courses to pursue
Now that you’ve read about the common jobs in Cloud Computing, it’s time to turn your aspirations of working in this industry into a reality. 

Here at NTUC LearningHub, our course content is carefully curated and updated according to industry standards, with the help of various stakeholders that continuously help make our courses relevant, timely and professional. 

a. Amazon Web Services (AWS)

AWS is a cloud platform that has been built for the most cost-effective, scalable cloud computing strategies. AWS is currently used by numerous big MNCs, application providers, ISVs, and vendors to help securely host their applications – whether an existing or a new SaaS-based one. 

Individuals pursuing this course typically become: 
-    Systems administrators
-    Software developers, especially those in a DevOps role

  1. AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials (SF)
    This course is for individuals who want to gain a rudimentary understanding of AWS Cloud, and is suitable for professionals across a variety of industries.

    Participants who take this 8-hour course will be able to:

    • Understand the basic global AWS Cloud infrastructure
    • Elaborate on AWS Cloud’s six benefits
    • Explain the core AWS services including computing, network, databases, and storage
    • Use AWS Cloud to devise appropriate solutions
    • Describe AWS Cloud migration basics


    Learn about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/aws-cloud-practitioner-essentials-sf

  2. Architecting on AWS (SF)
    As AWS is one of the top cloud providers in the world, there is a huge demand for Cloud Computing professionals who are able to build IT infrastructure on its platform.

    Individuals pursuing this course typically become:

    • Solutions architects
    • Solution-design engineers
    • Developers with a deeper AWS architecting know-how


    This one-week course will improve your understanding on how AWS services fit into cloud-based solutions, including the best practices and design patterns for architecting optimal IT solutions on AWS with guided, hands-on activities.

    Read all about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/architecting-on-aws-3

  3. Cloud Operations on AWS (SF)
    Aimed to prepare you for the entry level of cloud operations, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. This course also provides foundational knowledge for current and potential support technicians involved in the basic installation, operation, and verification of Cisco networks and hardware.

    This course paves the way for you to become a:

    • Entry-level network engineer
    • Network administrator
    • Network support technician
    • Help desk technician

As part of NTUC LearningHub’s collaboration with Cisco, this course offers a broad understanding of installing, operating, configuring, and verifying IPv4 and IPv6 networks, through a combination of interactive lectures, hands-on lab sessions, and comprehensive self-study.

Find out more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/cloud-operations-on-aws-sf

b. Microsoft Azure

  1. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
    This course was created for individuals who wish to develop an elementary understanding of how Microsoft Azure provides its cloud services.

    Professionals without technical backgrounds stand to benefit the most from this course. This also includes people involved in selling or purchasing cloud solutions or services that are cloud integrated.

    Learn more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/microsoft-azure-fundamentals-sf

  2. Microsoft Azure Administrator

    IT Professionals at all levels will gain much from this course, particularly if they:

    • Understand on-premises virtualisation technologies including VMs, virtual networking, and virtual hard disks
    • Are familiar with network configurations such as TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs, and other encryption technologies
    • Possess knowledge of Active Directory concepts that includes users, groups, and role-based access control

    Click this link for more on this course: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/microsoft-azure-administrator-sf

c. DevOps Hands-on Training

DevOps is a software development and IT operations process that smoothens the collaboration between developers and operators through usage of deployment automation, configuration, monitoring, and application management. Participants will need an understanding of software development and familiarity with the Linux command line.

Learn more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/devops-hands-on-training-terraform-jenkins-github-sonarqube-sf

View details
For Learners 08 Aug 2024

The Power of Adaptability: A Singaporean Professional's Guide to Navigating Change with Critical Core Skills

In a world defined by constant evolution and rapid cultural and technological transformation, Singaporean professionals’ ability to swiftly adjust, learn, and innovate has never been more crucial. While adaptability has emerged as the cornerstone of success for professionals in the city-state, Singapore’s dynamic business landscape demands a new approach to adaptability—one that goes beyond traditional skill sets.

This article will delve into the profound significance of adaptability in the context of Singapore's highly competitive business environment—and how professionals can be more adaptable by adopting what are known as Critical Core Skills. By uncovering the multifaceted aspects of adaptability and its symbiotic relationship with Critical Core Skills, we aim to provide a brief guide that will hopefully empower Singaporean professionals to thrive amidst uncertainty.

What are Critical Core Skills?
Critical Core Skills (CCS) is a framework developed by SkillsFuture Singapore that places 16 work-critical soft skills in three clusters, namely Critical Thinking, Interacting with Others, and Staying Relevant. The soft skills can be thought of as the skills that you need to build other skills, which makes them important for allowing you to better adapt to an increasingly fast-paced and volatile work environment.

These skills are evergreen and will be valuable throughout your professional career. Possessing them not only enhances progression within your current roles, but also equips you to transit into new roles when the opportunity arises. In contrast, other professionals who only have strong hard skills may struggle to advance and may eventually see their skills become obsolete.

Comprehensive CCS training covers the following areas:

Critical Thinking

  • Transdisciplinary Thinking
  • Creative Thinking
  • Decision Making
  • Problem Solving
  • Sense Making

Interacting with Others

  • Building Inclusivity
  • Collaboration
  • Influence
  • Customer Orientation
  • Communication

Staying Relevant

  • Adaptability
  • Developing People
  • Global Perspective
  • Digital Fluency
  • Self-Management
  • Learning Agility

How Critical Core Skills enhances your professional resilience
As a regional tech hub and a nexus of international trade, Singapore is always among the first places to feel market and technology disruptions. Having relevant Critical Core Skills will be effective in withstanding these disruptions and uncover meaningful opportunities.

Here are a few ways CCS training can help you readapt to new developments that affect your career:

  1. Facilitates career advancement. Developing your Critical Core Skills can help you to understand different perspectives and experiences within your industry. An ability to view one’s industry from other people’s perspectives—as well as within a wider context—is very helpful. It can empower you to better appreciate your own career and find the ideal paths for advancement within it.

  2. Strengthens human connections. Unlike hard skills, which are often automatable, CCS taps into the essence of what makes us human, which can never truly be replaced. By honing these skills, you cultivate resilience and foster enriching interactions with stakeholders, resulting in fruitful outcomes.

  3. Discover unexpected connections. Adapting to change often involves getting out of your comfort zone and tapping into knowledge areas that seem to have no apparent connection to your industry. Having CCS will help you see the value of practices employed by other industries, allowing you to make the connections necessary for innovating within your field.

  4. Keep abreast of new trends and technologies. While Singapore is ahead of the pack in the development of a smart nation, technology and work culture often move at a pace many organisations struggle to keep up with. A deeper mastery of Critical Core Skills will give you the mental clarity to be a first mover, enabling you and your team to capitalise on opportunities and avoid incoming threats to your profession.

  5. Makes you a better version of yourself. Adapting isn’t always about reinventing the wheel. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of becoming better at what you already do. Among many skills, CCS training teaches you how to be more creative, how to communicate effectively, and how to manage your internal resources. Taking a CCS course can, therefore, directly help with your current projects and help you overcome any existing roadblocks that are keeping you from moving forward in your career.

Critical Core Skills provide a firm foundation for your career
If you’re considering a change, CCS courses may be the key in helping you redirect your professional path. Regardless of your industry or obstacles you’re facing, improving your abilities to think critically, interact with others, and stay on top of current developments will open new ways for you to adapt and excel.

Moreover, unlike hard skills, critical core skills will always be transferrable and provide meaningful value, regardless of the career path you ultimately choose.

View details
For Learners 31 Jul 2024

Securing a Project Management Job in Singapore

The Project Management landscape is highly complex and ever-evolving. Here’s what you need to know to navigate it smoothly.  

You may be used to day-to-day routine operations of existing processes in your line of work and working with familiar people - but that changes when you are thrust into the unknown with a new initiative to see through. 

Projects can range in size, complexity and timeline. They may require a cross-collaboration between parties who have never worked together before (even more so with digital transformation and remote work), posing unique challenges as new ground is uncovered by the project team. 

Importance of Project Management in corporations
Project Management (PM), usually led by Project Managers, is the process of ensuring the smooth workflow and delivery of a specific set of tasks to complete a deliverable - be it once-off or over a prolonged period. This process includes management tasks like scoping, planning, scheduling, staffing & procurement, task allocation, progress measurement, quality control, troubleshooting, expectation management and reporting. 

Real world applications of PM are not just limited to IT or tech projects alone (e.g. developing a new software etc), it includes the building of a new physical structure, establishing urgent contingency plans or establishing the infrastructure that funnels online target audiences into targeted demographics.

Every project constitutes a dedicated team, strict budget, tight schedule and set of rules. In the bigger picture, companies embark on projects to build towards their desired area of growth - be it in terms of profitability, knowledge advancement for employees or other key focuses. 

Project Managers are leaders who can help these projects reach their respective goals as efficiently as possible. A McKinsey survey saw nearly 60 percent of senior executives mentioning that building a strong project management discipline is a top-three priority for their companies. To address this, the Project Management Institute (PMI) which was introduced in 1969, provides formalised training in project management tools with certifications recognised by various industries. 

Changes in the Project Management landscape for 2024
PM grows increasingly challenging as the world evolves with globalisation, digital transformation, remote working (and hiring) takes root post-pandemic. 

While technological advancement such as the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation births new project ideas and initiatives, it also changes the project management landscape with the introduction of new PM tools powered by AI, automation of certain tasks and consequently the evolution of the PM job roles to accommodate new tasks and the usage of new technologies. 

Here are just significant developments in the field of project management to keep your eye on as you embark on your PM journey:

  1. AI and Automation: Companies today use AI to automate manual project tasks to facilitate simultaneous learning from real-time performance insights. Other use cases for automation can include complex scheduling, data visualisation and interpretation, tasks delegation and reporting. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, PM tools and methodologies have been more heavily automated to cope with the need for remote communication and work. While automation may be useful, it has posed ethical and security threats that require stricter security frameworks in place - frameworks and compliance that Project Managers need to adhere closely to. 
  2. Advanced PM systems: With a predominant shift towards remote work and hiring since the pandemic, PM systems and collaborative work management software are increasingly important to manage all aspects of workflow in the absence of face-to-face communication. This way, KPIs can accessed easily in real-time, and reports can be generated automatically with less hassle which improves communication with team members around the world. 
  3. Hybrid PM Methodologies: Two popular approaches to PM are Agile and Waterfall. Key differentiators are that Waterfall follows a sequential approach where one step should be completed before moving on to the next - as opposed to Agile’s allowance for concurrent work on different steps simultaneously. While some companies adhere to strict project frameworks that follow protocols set in stone, others have since adopted hybrid strategy for projects, and would consequently be looking for Project Management Professionals (PMPs) who are well versed in more than one methodology. 

What do Project Management jobs entail?
A study by the Anderson Economic Group has projected that 22 million new project management roles would be created worldwide between 2017-2027, to bring the global demand for PMPs to a total of 88 million jobs. PMPs are mainly differentiated by project scale and here are some common roles to explore:  

1. Project Manager
Usually considered the head of every project, your role as a Project Manager is to ensure that each stage of the project sticks to the timeline and budget allocated. You will also: 

  1. Channel project resources effectively
  2. Carve out budgets necessary for procurement and hiring
  3. Monitor progress at every step of the project 
  4. Communicate closely with relevant stakeholders to keep everyone up to date, set expectations and identify issues to be addressed
  5. Ensure project execution and outcome abides by processes, vision and goals of company

Project Managers are in demand across a range of fields - including construction, IT, HR, and marketing. Prerequisites of Project Manager roles would typically include a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Business, on top of several years of experience in the relevant line of work with increasing responsibility. People who progress into being Project Managers typically start off as Project Coordinators (see below).  

Courses that can help you keep in touch with the current PM developments include the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, which NTUC LearningHub provides.

2. Scrum Master
A scrum master is a trainer / facilitator who leads a project team through stages of project’s development by following the Scrum framework - where phases of the project are packaged into time-boxed ‘sprints’ with daily standups to keep everyone on track. Scrum masters make core decisions to facilitate the necessary changes dynamically, with consideration given to blockers that the team faces. This facilitation of collaboration aims to help everyone achieve higher efficiency in their tasks, as compared to the typically strict top-down approach of a project manager. 

Modernisation has resulted in a flatter hierarchy in job roles, where Scrum Masters and Project Managers manage a project from different perspectives but are not necessarily higher in the hierarchy than the other. Consider a Scrum Master Certification as your path into this role.  

3. Project Coordinator
Project Coordinators support the Project Manager in ensuring that the nitty gritty details, checklists and protocols are all in order. Typical Project Coordinator roles and responsibilities include: 

  1. Working closely on with other team members on the specified projects to monitor progress and understand any project blockers
  2. Ensuring that the project abides by designated timelines and schedules 
  3. Arranging timely check-ins with the team for progress updates
  4. Helping team members align with goals and priorities of the organisation
  5. Utilising tech-savvy ways (such as using spreadsheets and PM software) of keeping tabs on work done and tracking a project 
  6. Keeping and organising financial files and documents, contracts, and any reports or invoices organised
     

Courses to pursue Project Management in 2024
NTUC LearningHub is an official training partner of Project Management Institute, DevOps Institute, ICAgile, Scaled Agile and Axelos to help ensure these courses are carefully selected while considering the latest advancements in project management methodologies. 

If you are ready to embark on your new project management journey - regardless of whether you are looking to enhance your project management expertise or considering a mid-career switch into this thriving industry, you may consider signing up for some of our recommended courses below:

a. NICF – ITIL 4 Foundation (SF) (SYNCHRONOUS E-LEARNING)
This preparatory course will familiarise you with the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) 4 Foundation exam - an IT service management certification for project managers to handle full operating models in invention, implementation and improvement of high-tech products and services. 

Learn more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/nicf-itil-4-foundation-sf-1

b. NICF – Project Managemenr Professional (PMP)® (SF) (SYNCHRONOUS E-LEARNING)
The Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification is recognised worldwide as the standard certification of the profession, and proof of the certified individual’s core knowledge in and grasp of critical Project Management concepts, principles, and techniques. 

Stand out in your applications to Project Management roles with the PMP® certification here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/nicf-project-management-professional-pmp-sf

c. ICAgile Certified Professional (ICP) (SF)
This International Consortium for Agile (ICAgile) accredited course helps to define the roles and responsibilities of team members involved in Agile projects, and cement your understanding of specific practices used in Agile. 

Get the full details here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/icagile-certified-professional-icp-sf 

d. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® (SF) (SYNCHRONOUS E-LEARNING)
This course is suited for any entry-level individuals wishing to enter the project management profession or for current project team members, project support staff, team leads, functional managers seeking an international-level credential. You will attain a thorough understanding of Project Management Institutes (PMI) approach to project management, and all sections of “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)”. 

Find out more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/nicf-certified-associate-in-project-management-capm-sf

e. DevOps Foundation (SF) 
DevOps is a model that merges cultural philosophies, practices, and tools to elevate and accelerate an organisation’s ability to deliver applications and services at high speeds. The DevOps model has also been used to help improve and mature products at an accelerated pace as compared to companies using traditional software and infrastructure. 

Get ready to apply them to real-life scenarios. Learn more here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/devops-foundation-sf

f. Leading Safe (Certified Safe Agilist) (SF)
Gain a thorough understanding of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) and apply it when leading large-scale complex projects and programs. After this course, you will be able to implement SAFe in an enterprise including leadership, program execution and governance. 

Find out about this course in detail here:
https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/leading-safe-certified-safe-agilist-sf


 

View details
For Learners 04 Jun 2024

HR WSQ Courses in Singapore: A Flexible and Structured Pathway Towards Receiving a Diploma in HR

Cultural shifts, technological advancements, and major demographic changes in the Singaporean business landscape are causing many human resource professionals to rethink their current approaches to employee management and to adopt innovative and forward-looking solutions.

With these factors, many Singaporean businesses are now increasingly motivated to onboard top-tier HR professionals. Highly qualified HR professionals have perennially been in short supply, but this rising demand for individuals with HR certification has created new opportunities for professionals who are willing to be trained in modern human resource practices. 

Taking HR Workforce Skills Qualifications courses for your HR diploma
The gold standard for HR qualifications is, of course, a diploma in HR. However, the conventional path to a diploma isn’t something that everyone can take. Professionals who are presently employed simply may not have the bandwidth to take a full-time HR diploma course on top of their current responsibilities. Fortunately, online Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) courses for HR lighten the load by allowing you to take as many modules as you can take on, making earning a diploma in HR much more manageable for you and for Singapore’s other professionals.
 
HR WSQ Courses in Singapore comprises of 8 modules that you must complete to earn your human resources diploma. These online learning modules can be taken in any order, and the lessons gleaned from these could be immediately applied to current HR needs. Completing a course will earn you a Statement of Attainment (SOA) from SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).

You can take as many courses as you can handle and completing all 8 will confer upon you a diploma in human resources.

Why take WSQ HR courses?
Completing these courses offers several benefits for both your professional and personal development. Here are some of the reasons why taking HR WSQ courses is a strategic decision:

  1. Qualified Human Resource professionals are in high demand. Singaporean businesses are now pivoting towards a more strategic approach to human resource management. A Josh Bersin and IBM study released in 2021 found that businesses that invested in modern HR capabilities were up to 5.5 times more likely to experience significant profit growth and were 6 times more likely to be innovative. Businesses are now beginning to realise that the only way to acquire these modern capabilities is to hire properly certified HR professionals that are familiar with current best practices. 

  2. The Singaporean Human Resource climate is changing. As a whole, Singapore’s younger workers and students who are about to join the labour pool no longer share the same values and priorities as earlier generations of Singaporeans. Workplaces are also becoming more diverse as foreign workers become a vital part of more industries. Recent technological advancements have also permanently changed the nature of work in various fields. Taking HR WSQ courses will give you the skill sets you need to stay relevant in the HR arena.

  3. HR skills are evergreen. Essential HR skills such as communication, conflict resolution, recruitment, and performance management are highly translatable across different professions. Taking HR WSQ courses gives you a structured approach to mastering these skills, giving you a firmer foundation on which to perform your duties. These courses may even benefit seasoned HR professionals as they provide a way for them to refine and update their abilities, enabling them to tackle modern human resource challenges with confidence.

  4. Taking HR courses may enhance your leadership potential. If you are a professional who is not currently on a human resource career track, you may increase your leadership potential by taking HR WSQ courses. A deeper knowledge of human resource practices can also enable you to better manage teams, putting you on track for a promotion and giving you a serious advantage should you decide to pursue entrepreneurship.

Start your HR journey through WSQ courses
The conventional route towards earning an HR diploma may not always be feasible, especially for professionals who need to juggle several responsibilities. Taking WSQ courses is a great option for busy professionals like you who may be seeking to earn your diploma in HR, as these can be completed at your own pace. 

Additionally, learners like you have the advantage of promptly selecting any courses that can have an immediate and substantial impact on your career. These courses provide structured learning and certifications, ensuring that the skills you acquire remain valuable and transferable throughout your professional journey.

Find out more about WSQ Diploma in HR modules, powered by Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/topics/shrm 

View details
For Learners 10 May 2024

Data Analytics Courses & Certifications in Singapore 2024

1. What is Data Analytics?
You have probably heard of ‘Big Data’ - it captures details about most facets of our lives including our daily activities, our interactions with social media & devices, our shopping & consumption habits and more. But what is the point of all this data unless it’s translated into valuable insights? 

The growth of Big Data and digital transformation drives the demand for skilled professionals who can understand and analyse raw data to extract valuable information into actionable insights. Data Analysts possess the technical skills to analyse large data sets through specialised software and tools, such as Microsoft Power BI for business intelligence, Google Analytics for web analytics and Tableau for data visualisation. These skills are based on fundamental data analysis techniques that can be practised in Microsoft Excel. According to the Robert Half Salary Guide, Data Analysts were among the top five in-demand hiring roles in Singapore in 2022. 

2. Changes in Data Analytics landscape
Data Analytics has been rapidly adopted by most organisations and businesses, and the industry itself is growing and evolving at a breakneck pace. Data centre operations are sprouting in high numbers in Singapore over the last few years just to accommodate the increased demand, with about 24 providers and more than 40 data centres currently. 

However, your job prospects in the field of data analytics are not limited to data centres. From e-commerce to education, all businesses collect data on their systems and users to analyse for actionable insights to improve their business performance. 

As the world quickly wakes up to the significance, permeation, power and even risks associated with data, new regulations and platforms have emerged in response. Here are some of the hot topics in Data Analytics: 

  1. Data Protection Regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) are being implemented by governments, regulatory boards and large IT players to safeguard user data interests. The Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) is the baseline benchmark of protection for personal data within Singapore. This law is used to detail legislative and regulatory protocols that are embedded within different sectors, including the Banking Act and Insurance Act. As Singapore faces challenges when it comes to data breaches and protection, your role as a Data Analyst can entail even more legislative laws put in place, perhaps for newer technologies such as blockchain, decentralised finance and cryptocurrency. 
  2. Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is the latest version of the analytics tool built by Google to curate precise and timely measurement of user data on websites and apps. Tracking website and app data to funnel and characterise users into different parts of the customer journey, GA4 collects event or session-based data with updated privacy controls such as cookieless measurement now newly baked in as an upgrade on the long-standing Universal Analytics (UA). If you have yet to, you will need to update your proficiency in Google Analytics 4 so your company’s or client’s data can be collected, manipulated and interpreted efficiently. 

  3. If you are using a smartphone, chances are you have been more involved in the cloud than ever before. Cloud Analytics translates analytic software into the cloud, analysing data patterns in private or public cloud infrastructures to gather new insights across different databases, servers or software powered by the Internet. 

  4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is when machines or computerised software are modelled after human intelligence and behaviour. Much like how Lensa gained popularity at the tail end of 2022 as everyone changed their profile picture into an AI-generated version of their selfie, every organisation’s processes have the potential to be automated through AI systems such as machine learning, expert systems, natural language processing, speech recognition and machine vision. 

3. A career in Data Analytics
A Data Analyst can seek roles as Data Scientists, Data Technicians or Data Consultants, but it does not stop there. Data Analysis as a transferable skill set is highly sought after in Singapore, especially considering how connected we are, and how reliant we are on technology. Skills in data analysis and visualisation opens up crucial opportunities in management and consulting roles, as organisations depend on you to point them in the right direction with data-driven decisions. 

Internet giants such as Google, Amazon and Facebook have also chosen Singapore as one of their destinations to house data. Facebook will be investing S$1.4 billion into building a 170,000 square metre building in Singapore, which will become the world’s largest data centre under one roof. Having one of these tech giants under your resume could be reality for you as a Data Analyst. In addition, the data industry contributes around S$1 billion to Singapore’s economy each year. 

Here are some of the key responsibilities you could take on in a role that involves Data Analytics, including some common qualifications that are needed: 

  1. Control and program automated tools to retrieve relevant data from primary and secondary sources
  2. Assigning numerical values to essential business functions to quantify and track business growth
  3. Identify and eradicate corrupted data while providing solutions for any coding problems that may surface
  4. Arrange and sort data (e.g., sales numbers, market research, logistics, and other patterns of behaviour etc)
  5. Making sense of raw data and gathering insights
  6. Crafting in-depth reports using performance indicators
  7. Keeping tabs on local, national, and global trends in data and data management that can affect the organisation - and potentially implementing them
  8. Partnering with programmers, engineers, and management heads to craft process improvements, propose system modifications, or improve data governance strategies
  9. Maintaining security of databases and data systems

Organisations look for these key defining skills in a Data Analyst: 

  1. Powerful set of mathematical skills to help collect, measure, organise and analyse data 
  2. Proficiency in programming languages like SQL, Oracle, R, MATLAB, and Python
  3. Familiarity with reporting packages like Business Objects, programming (Javascript, XML, or ETL frameworks), databases
  4. Technical proficiency regarding database design development, data models, techniques for data mining, and segmentation.
  5. Operating know-how for statistical softwares such as Excel, SPSS, SAS and data processing platforms like Hadoop and Apache Spark
  6. Knowledge of data visualisation software like Tableau, Qlik, Google Looker Studio

And in case you were wondering, Data Analysts can get starting salaries of $4,550 and higher.

4. Courses for your 2024 Data Analytics journey
To ensure that you are trained in the most current and updated skills, NTUC LearningHub has partnered with key leaders in the industry such as Microsoft, Qlik Sense and Tableau, to provide training for practical skills to enhance your data analytics knowledge and expertise. 

If you are eager to get started on your Data Analytics path, here is a list of NTUC LearningHub courses to propel your dreams of becoming a Data Analyst into reality. 

  1. Data Analysis Fundamentals using Microsoft Excel (IBF)
    If you are just starting out, this is the first step for most data analysts. This 15-hour course introduces you to data analysis processes and techniques in Excel (beyond basic formulas) and builds towards more advanced capabilities such as dashboard creation, process automation, data modelling and more that can be applied in roles such as:
    • Data Officer
    • Associate Data Analyst / Data Analyst
    • Associate Data Engineer / Data Engineer
    • Associate Data Scientist / Data Scientist
    • Business Analyst
    • Data Team Leader

    Here is your start: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/data-analysis-fundamentals-using-microsoft-excel-ibf

  2. Analysing and Visualising Data with Power BI (SF)
    Microsoft Power BI (Business Intelligence) is an enterprise level data visualisation software used by major corporations for data transformation, data analysis and to garner actionable insights to aid the planning of business strategies and make crucial decisions in operational structure and processes.
    This 24-hour course introduces you to the Power BI Service and the Power BI Mobile App across nine modules and prepares you for data analysis with Power BI through hands-on experiences in illustrating data patterns and insights through data visualisation and dashboard creation. This course is popular amongst those who are / aspire to be:
    • Report Creators
    • Data Analysts
    • Business Intelligence Professionals

    If you have similar aspirations, find out more here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/analyzing-and-visualizing-data-with-power-bi-sf 

  3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Financial Services
    Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is the process of using technology to configure computer software, or a “robot”, to replicate human actions, interacting with a range of applications to execute whole or parts of business processes. RPA is typically used to reduce the amount of human effort required to complete repetitive tasks by automating them.
    This course covers RPA basic concepts and core principles of RPA development for the integration of different types of applications in seven lessons across 22.5 hours, all within the powerful UiPath Studio software and in the context of financial services. Apart from learning about data extraction, variables and sequencing & flow within UiPath Studio, you will also explore potential RPA tool integrations with a range of applications such as Excel, PDF, and Emails.

    Read all about this RPA course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/rpa-in-financial-services

  4. Fundamentals of the Personal Data Protection Act
    If you are based in Singapore, you will need to comply with the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) when managing consumer data for your business, ensuring that the collection, storage, and usage of your consumers' data abides by local security and data protection legislation.
    This three-day course will give you a good overview and understanding of the PDPA and how it should be applied to your organisation for compliance. In addition to referencing various sections of the PDPA, the course content is also largely adapted from the Advisory Guidelines published by the PDPC and emphasises the best practices of keeping data safe.
    Key participants who would greatly benefit from the programme include:
    • Compliance Managers or Data Protection Officers (DPOs)
    • Human Resource, Admin, IT personnel, Sales and Business Development Executive / Managers who need to be involved in data protection matters

    More here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/fundamentals-of-personal-data-protection-act

View details
For Learners 23 Apr 2024

How to Provide Effective Coaching and Feedback to Maximise Team Performance

Businesses with good coaches are better placed to foster skills development, build a positive work environment, reduce employee attrition rates, retain critical internal knowledge, and cultivate invaluable goodwill within their industries. These benefits all contribute to making organisations more effective and more survivable in the face of ever-increasing global market volatility. 

Given this, leaders with proficiency in critical developmental skills such as coaching and feedback can provide their organisations with immense value that exceeds whatever they can bring to the table with their individual technical or managerial talents. While there is no single “correct” approach to coaching and providing feedback, there are several key coaching principles that can significantly contribute to successful outcomes. Here, we’ll look at some important best practices to help leaders become better coaches to their teams.

1) Set clear and unambiguous expectations
Nearly every management how-to will tell you to set expectations early on, for many good reasons. When expectations are explicit, team members can prioritise their time much more effectively, as they will waste less time doing unnecessary guessing and busywork. This makes setting expectations inseparable from sound team performance management.
 
However, many managers fail to understand that setting expectations involves much more than just telling team members to meet certain key performance indicators. When setting expectations, managers also need to account for the cultural backdrop as well as the competencies, values, and personality types of each team member. This is because what is unambiguous to some people may not necessarily be that way to others.

Accounting for diversity is especially important in Singapore, where many individuals may be primed to avoid talking and confrontation due to existing cultural norms that emphasise harmony and community. Taking those factors into account ensures that leaders are better able to set expected standards for team performance.

2) Help team members set goals
Building on the previous point, it is equally important for leaders to empower their team members to improve their goal setting and action-planning capabilities. Through coaching, leaders can guide their team in setting clear and meaningful goals—objectives that are aligned and in tune with organisational objectives. They can help their team members identify specific and measurable targets, while also aiding them in prioritising tasks and developing action plans to achieve these targets. 

Giving feedback, on the other hand, allows leaders to provide timely and constructive input on the progress and quality of goal execution. It enables them to recognise their team member’s individual strengths, while also being able to offer guidance for improvement.

3) Build genuine rapport
Positive emotional connections are the basis for trust, an important ingredient for meaningful coaching sessions. Without rapport, you might find it difficult to create a safe space for your team members to explore their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours. If you try to fake rapport, chances are that your team members will become cynical about further attempts at structured skills development.
 
Given this, leaders who want to elicit good results from coaching must strive to develop some kind of genuine connection with team members. This can be a delicate balancing act, as overfamiliarity can undermine a leader’s authority. With this in mind, they should exercise proper judgement when building rapport with different members of their team, taking their personalities and the professional environment fully into account.

4) Give feedback wisely
In 2019, the Harvard Business Review published a controversial piece titled “The Feedback Fallacy”. The article deconstructed the underlying assumption that frank feedback is important for eliciting improvement, pointing out many weaknesses of most management teams’ feedback systems.
 
One of the important points was centred around research results that showed that more than 50% of one’s ratings of someone else reflect one’s own characteristics. This means that leaders have to be cognisant of their own biases when doing coaching sessions—something that is not universal by any means. 
 
Another important point is that harsh criticism can trigger a fight or flight response in people’s brains, inhibiting learning rather than facilitating it. This means that stressful feedback structures such as traditional annual or biannual reviews are often highly ineffective at bringing about desired changes in behaviour.

One other important point is the value of positive feedback. Leaders will almost certainly fail to get sustainable results by pointing out failures. To ensure that a coachee continues improvement, it’s often more helpful to praise successes or desired behaviours and explain how that helps the rest of the team.

5) Respond to concerns as soon as possible
If a team member brings up a productivity issue or if someone’s behaviour needs correcting, it’s unwise to wait for a long time to address it. Leaders have to be prepared to undertake feedback and coaching sessions before the issue has a chance to seriously undermine the team’s performance. 

Team members will be rightly aggrieved if months-old issues are brought up with them for the first time at an annual review rather than when the issue was still relevant. The lack of timely coaching will also allow the issue to continuously degrade the individual’s and the team’s performance up until the time of the regularly scheduled review, which could lead to unacceptable operational conditions in the meantime.

6) Encourage real dialogue between team members
Aside from earning the rapport of individuals in their charge, leaders should also encourage team members to build friendly or, at least, cordial relationships with each other. This not only helps foster teamwork and knowledge-sharing, but it also helps to avoid potential conflicts that could interfere with professional development and productivity.

7) Keep tabs on everyone’s growth
It can be tough to get a good idea of just how much a team has progressed or how to coach them if you don’t have a baseline to start from. Measuring progress ensures that you are better able to set clear and realistic goals.

When possible, track your team’s performance in as transparent and unobtrusive a way as possible. Some forms of close monitoring can actually negatively affect performance by degrading trust and increasing anxiety among team members. 

8) Recognise milestones
The meaningful recognition of performance milestones is important for several reasons. First, it helps reinforce the kinds of positive behaviours that help your team exceed its limits. Second, it helps build the confidence that each individual needs to stay motivated. Third, recognition also provides opportunities for reflection and learning throughout the entire team. Lastly, giving team members the recognition they deserve can help instil a sense of loyalty, creating a positive environment that reduces turnover and encourages individuals to go above and beyond out of their own volition.

9) Learn from your team
While you might be in charge, you aren’t necessarily the smartest, most experienced, or even the most qualified person in your team. Leaders should always be open to learning from the individuals they manage, as it will not only help them drive team performance but it should also help them become better-rounded leaders.

Final thoughts
While there are some good guidelines to aid leaders in their journey, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to effective coaching and feedback. Not only are these leadership and developmental areas ongoing processes, but they are deeply human activities as well. 

As such, leaders should not think of themselves as traditional bosses or simple order-givers. Rather, they have a responsibility to take a keen interest in the unique, ever-changing needs and dynamics of their team. This means it’s important to regularly revisit and adjust one’s approach and to use one’s experience, training, and good judgement to the team’s full benefit. It would also be beneficial to consider taking coaching classes like NTUC LearningHub’s The Coaching Essentials, The Developing Coach, and The Practicing Coach courses. Enrolling in such courses can benefit leaders by enhancing their communication and interpersonal skills, improving their ability to motivate and inspire their teams, helping them develop effective problem-solving strategies, and allowing them to foster a growth mindset.

View details
For Learners 15 Mar 2024

Generative AI and its New Popularity

Generative AI is all the rage now. Learn exactly what it is and why it has become so prominent.

Generative AI is taking the world by storm and marks a turning point in content creation. Generative AI refers to models and algorithms that produce new output trained from extensive amounts of data in various outputs such as text, audio, images, video, data, 3D renderings, and more.

Generative AI rose to prominence in 2022, most noticeably when OpenAI made Dall-E 2 available to anyone. Dall-E 2 generates images with text to graphics prompts and was initially only accessible to users on a long waiting list. Then came the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, which grew by 132% in January 2023, and is now considered the best AI chatbot around. Since then, the interest in generative AI hasn’t wavered.

The economic potential and benefits of Generative AI
According to a McKinsey report, it is estimated that generative AI’s impact on productivity can contribute up to $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy by 2040. After all, generative AI tools reduce the money and time required for content creation. 

For instance, generative AI can be used to power chatbots and virtual assistants, which can optimise time and resources, increasing productivity for human employees. AI chatbots and virtual assistants allow for faster response time, which can boost conversions and in turn improve brand perception. 

Furthermore, generative AI sets the stage for new business models and applications, in which their development can be accelerated with code suggestions based on the original developers’ comments and code. Business operations can be improved through generative AI-powered tools that automatically extract and summarise data. 

In terms of automation, generative AI can be used to generate reports, summaries and more  – also saving time and reducing errors. Moreover, marketing content such as blogs and social media posts can be generated in real time as well. However, these possible use cases and benefits of generative AI barely scratch the surface of how it is single-handedly changing our world. 

Use cases of Generative AI
In addition to the seminal chatbots ChatGPT-4 and Google Bard, which have changed the writing game, other use cases of generative AI include Copilot, a tool that suggests code snippets to AI developers, and even in the healthcare field – AlphaFold is a tool that can predict the 3D structure of proteins, which plays a crucial role in understanding diseases. 

Generative AI is even equipped to take on the role of supply chain advisor and offers greater visibility across the supply chain, which ultimately aids the decision-making process. It can help maintain machinery by interpreting readings, as well as offering recommendations and solutions if an issue is detected. 

Adobe Photoshop also offers generative AI capabilities that can fill in elements of an image, as well as background-switching capabilities and more. 

The difference between traditional and generative AI
Traditional AI models are more specific and mainly analyse data while making predictions. On the other hand, generative AI analyses datasets and subsequently creates output similar to what it was trained with. 

Evaluating generative AI models
Assessing whether a generative AI model depends on three factors namely quality, diversity and speed. For AI apps that interact directly with users, high-quality generative output is crucial. In the case of speech generation, the output must be understandable and with images, the output must look realistic enough.

An effective generative AI model captures minority modes in its data distribution without generation quality, which lowers biases in the learned models. Furthermore, generative AI apps require real-time generation such as instant image editing, to smoothen content creation processes.

Jobs in generative AI
Generally, a position within the generative AI field requires prior knowledge in prompt engineering, which revolves around designing inputs that interact optimally with other inputs in a generative AI model. Here are some other roles that are generative AI-related: 

1. Generative AI Quality Engineer
Generative AI Quality Engineers drive the development and implementation of best practices for relevant end-to-end features powered by machine learning and foundation models. They are also responsible for building novel software prototypes, tools and applications which enhance the quality of operating systems using foundation models.

2. Data Scientist
Data scientists work with machine learning scientists and architects to research and develop cutting-edge generative AI algorithms that address real-world situations. They directly interact with customers to understand their pain points, guiding customers on adoption patterns and production paths.

3. AI Engineer
Part of the responsibilities of an AI Engineer include designing and developing production platforms that power the AI models - improving reliability and security at scale. They collaborate with researchers and product managers to bring new features and research capabilities to the world.

Generative AI courses to pursue in 2024
Several courses may need individuals to possess prior knowledge of AI-related modules. However, there are courses that individuals from all backgrounds can join. 

a. Generative AI for Business Professionals: ChatGPT, Media Synthesis, and Beyond
This course helps individuals understand the principles and concepts of generative AI. Individuals would be able to identify and evaluate the potential use cases of generative AI based on respective industries, as well as learn from generative AI case studies across these industries. 

Learn more about this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/generative-ai-for-business-professionals-chatgpt-media-synthesis-and-beyond


b. AI Innovation Unleashed: Navigating the Terrain of Prompt Engineering
With this course, individuals get to learn about AI innovation through prompt engineering. This course lets students explore the intricacies of crafting effective prompts that drive AI models. They will also gain a fundamental understanding of the principles of AI, with a GPT-specific focus.

Find out more about this course: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/ai-innovation-unleashed-navigating-the-terrain-of-prompt-engineering


c. AI Tools for Creative Professionals
Participants will learn about how AI affects marketing and business strategies, as well as the right AI tools for marketing planning and execution. They will learn to create effective marketing content such as visuals and copy using AI software.

More on this course here: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/ai-tools-for-creative-professionals


d. Empowering Digital Marketers with Essential AI Tools
Individuals from and beyond the creative industry can grasp an understanding of generative AI principles and concepts. They can learn to evaluate possible use cases of generative AI relating to their specific industries as well. Students can also learn to develop and use basic generative AI models using tools like ChatGPT.

Click this link for more information: https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/-/course/empowering-digital-marketers-with-essential-ai-tools

View details
For Learners 17 Apr 2020

New Decade, New Trends: Five Skills That Will Propel Careers to Greater Heights

The last decade saw an explosion of new advancements such as 4G, cloud computing and big data analytics. These innovations not only transformed the way we live, but also the way we work. With 2020 just around the corner, which vital skills will help you keep up with the upcoming trends?

From the advent of 5G to the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI), our world is changing more rapidly than ever and the next decade will call for a whole new set of skills. Here’s a list of our top predictions and how you can start preparing for them!

1. Data Analytics Skills

he data analytics industry plays a key role in Singapore’s economy. Studies by the Singapore Economic Development Board indicate that it contributes at least S$1 billion each year, and the value of regional business analytics services is estimated to SGD$37 billion by 2022! While the “big data” buzzword of this era may seem daunting, data analytics simply allows businesses to parse through the massive amounts of information generated to extract meaningful and actionable insights.

The uses for these insights are endless — from improving marketing, to providing better customer service and streamlining decision making. As Singapore remains committed to becoming a digital nation, more and more companies are beginning to overhaul operations to incorporate data analytics. Skillswise, that means global need for talented analysts will only continue to grow in the coming decade.

Recommended Course: Data Appreciation To Extract Business Value

2. Customer Experience (UX) Skills

As 4G gained traction in the 2010s, so did UX to ensure that digital products offer a pleasant experience for their users. But just as we are beginning to understand how UX works, things are about to be shaken up with the advent of 5G. Expected to cover at least half of Singapore by the end of 2022, 5G will offer speeds of up to 100 gigabits per second (that’s up to 100 times faster than its predecessor!).

The effects of 5G are far-reaching. On one hand, slow websites and low quality videos will no longer be acceptable. On the other hand, designers will be able to utilise high definition media and animated texts, fonts and graphics to engage users. Customers are interacting with businesses via digital touchpoints over physical channels more than ever, making it all the more important to create holistic and memorable experiences throughout the journey. With UX sitting at the heart of every business’ digital presence, there will be a growing demand for experts who can examine an organisation’s digital performance and ensure that it conforms to the latest industry standards and trends. As such, experienced UX practitioners will become indispensable to businesses in the decade to come.

Recommended Course: User Experience (UX) Foundation

3. Programming & Automation Skills

Humans are not designed to engage in menial or repetitive tasks. It stifles creativity and increases the occurrence of human error. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) however, offers workers the potential to free up time spent on daily repetitive tasks by creating their very own robot to do the work instead.

The worldwide market for RPA services is expected to reach $7.7 billion in 2020 and grow to $12 billion in 2023. While RPA robots can read and understand simple documents, machine learning and AI algorithms will enable them to draw data from multiple sources and deal with more complex processes. In saying that, RPA wasn’t designed to displace workers. Rather, they are only as effective and efficient as the person configuring them, so skilled practitioners will be more important than ever to programme robots as an additional help at the workplace.

Recommended Course: Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Fundamentals

4. Cybersecurity Skills

As the world continues to rapidly increase its level of connectivity through 5G and IoT, so too will we see an increase in the occurrence and sophistication of cyberthreats. And while AI will help to identify and respond to new threats, the number of data breaches is expected to rise as hackers use these same methods to break into well-protected systems.

The bright side is that the pressures of cybersecurity will force organisations to make it a priority and give birth to a whole suite of new career opportunities. Research has shown that 53% of IT workers report that their company is short on cybersecurity skills. Recruitment agency Michael Page also surfaced cybersecurity as one of the key hiring trends in the technology, media and telecommunications sector. Technical and non-technical professionals alike will greatly benefit from an in-depth understanding of cybersecurity threats, opportunities and solutions.

Recommended Course: Cybint Cybersecurity Protection Programme

5. Project Management Skills

Good project management involves more than just keeping to timelines and ensuring expenditures are in check. It unites teams, facilitates effective communication and creates a clear vision for success. In the age of digital transformation, fundamental business processes are changing, and project management must adapt to keep up with the times.

Project management is also at the forefront of the budding DevOps trend. A combination of philosophies, practices and tools, DevOps enables organisations to deliver new and updated products more rapidly and frequently than traditional approaches.

While the velocity of delivery has traditionally been favoured as a metric of success, business value will become just as important and require talents who possess not only technical but business skills. Being proficient in project management will be an invaluable skill for a multitude of careers in 2020 and beyond.

Recommended Course: NICF – Project Management Professional (PMP)

This festive season, give yourself and your loved ones the gift of learning. Enjoy registration fee waiver on us for all December and January classes* to kickstart your learning journey!

NTUC LearningHub celebrates 15 years of transforming people through accessible and affordable education. Since 2004, we have fulfilled over 2.4 million training places and transformed over 21,000 organisations.

Regardless of collar, age or nationality, we are here to help you upgrade your skills to keep up with the rapidly changing workforce in 2020 and beyond. For more information on how we can help, talk to our friendly Course Consultants at NTUC Trade Union House, Devan Nair Institute for Employment and Employability, LHUB@Tampines Mall or any of our roadshows islandwide.

*Applicable for programmes/courses conducted in December 2019 and January 2020 only.

View details