IMPLICATIONS FOR LEARNING AT SCHOOL, Job AND HOME ,  ,
The PIAAC’s studies in literacy and numeracy may influence how Singapore approaches education and training.
It’s important to realise that learning is a lifelong process, starting from infancy through to adulthood. The key to developing a solid foundation in school is to place an emphasis on cultivating growth mindsets that will allow ongoing learning throughout life.
SkillsFuture programmes may continue to promote these basic skills, in addition to providing job-ready, business appropriate training.
Although the new SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme and the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy are intended for older workers over 40, the PIAAC’s findings on the first drop in education suggest that younger employees may also need attention.
According to a study by Kyrolainen and Kuperman ( 2021 ), formal education was the most important predictor of PIAAC literacy scores in all nations, but there was also a significant increase in the number of reading jobs and home reads.
Employers should consider how to develop basic skills in their workforce by offering intentional learning opportunities like projects, workshops, or development challenges.
Companies may even come up with creative ways to make learning fun, such as through matches or exams, aside from conventional education. Some businesses hold a regular book club meeting where staff members can explore thought-provoking books. Besides fostering social interaction, such events also help stimulate and sustain education among people.
Activities like the National Reading Movement spearheaded by the National Library Board and events like the Singapore Writers Festival may also contribute to the development of a checking and artistic traditions in Singapore.
According to Kyrolainen and Kuperman, home effect, which is correlated with the number of books in a person’s childhood home, was a significant predictor of PIAAC literacy scores, which suggests that a love for literature can be passed down from one generation to the next.
Singapore should aim to become one of the world’s most knowledgeable societies in the near future due to its advanced economy and excellent educational system. This can be realised through a conscious effort by all partners, recognising what is at play.
Terence Ho is a Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy Associate Professor in Practice. He is the author of Future-Ready Governance: Perspectives on Singapore and the World ( 2024 ).