Sat. Mar 22nd, 2025
TL;DR Confidence Boost for Youths: NTUC Youth Task Force (YTF) Game-Changing Recommendations for the Future Workforce 

Entering the workforce can be both exciting and daunting for youths. To support them during this crucial phase of their lives, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has unveiled a set of key recommendations based on insights gathered from the NTUC Youth Taskforce’s engagements with over 10,000 youths aged between 17 and 25. 

The Key Recommendations: 

  1. Accessible career mentorship: Who doesn’t need a mentor to guide them through life’s ups and downs? NTUC is ramping up its career mentorship program by establishing a dedicated hub called mentorSHIP which aims to reach 1,200 mentors by 2025. Say hello to more industry experts ready to share their wisdom and help youth kick-start their dream careers. NTUC’s got their mentorship needs covered!
  2. Meaningful internships: Let’s face it, internships can sometimes feel like a maze. But fear not because NTUC wants to make sure our youths’ internships are packed with value! They’re urging schools and employers to level up their game by listening to their feedback. To facilitate this, together with the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), NTUC has launched the new NTUC Career Starter Lab (CSL) pilot, offering short-term work trials with workplace mentorship for freshly graduated youths. Get ready for internships that offer real-world experiences, valuable skills, and mentors who genuinely care about personal and professional growth. Say goodbye to mismatched roles and hello to fulfilling internships!
  3. Mental well-being peer support: We all need a little support, especially when it comes to mental well-being. NTUC recognizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment for youths. That’s why they’re expanding the network of certified peer supporters in workplaces. Young NTUC, in collaboration with certified peer supporters, aims to foster a psychologically safe environment and destigmatize mental health issues. By expanding the network of trained peer supporters, NTUC plans to provide better access to peer-to-peer mental well-being support for youths. These fabulous folks will be there to lend an ear, offer guidance, and create a safe space for mental health discussions. Because your well-being matters! #facts
  4. NTUC Starter Membership: Picture this—an all-in-one membership designed for youths. NTUC’s got our youths back with their digital NTUC Starter Membership. This membership is tailor-made to address their career, lifestyle, and transitional needs. Whether you are seeking career advice, lifestyle perks, or navigating life’s twists and turns, NTUC has got you covered!
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But wait, there’s more! The NTUC Youth Taskforce’s engagements with thousands of youths have uncovered fascinating insights. Here’s a quick roundup: 

– Personal Success: Youths define personal success as finding contentment in life, having meaningful relationships, and being financially secure. We all want that, right? 

– Financial Worries: Daily expenses and family obligations can dry our wallets. But fear not because NTUC understands your challenges and wants to equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the financial world like a pro. 

– Work-Life Balance: Balancing work and play is a genuine concern for youths. NTUC is all about helping youths find that sweet spot where you can pursue their dreams while having a life outside of work. 

With these recommendations and insights, NTUC wants to empower our youths, uplift your spirits, and equip them with the skills and support needed to conquer the workforce confidently. 

As part of the more extensive campaign #EveryWorkerMatters Conversations, the NTUC Youth Taskforce (YTF) continues innovating and co-creating the future of work and workplace with youths. 

From left: NTUC Assistant Secretary General Desmond Choo; NTUC Secretary General Ng Chee Meng; Young NTUC Executive Secretary, Wendy Tan
From left:  NTUC Assistant Secretary General Desmond Choo; NTUC Secretary General Ng Chee Meng; Young NTUC Executive Secretary, Wendy Tan PHOTO:NTUC

At a media briefing on July 12, NTUC Secretary-General (SG) Ng Chee Meng expressed his gratitude for the insights gathered from over 10,500 youths. He stated, ” “The NTUC Youth Taskforce findings have given us very useful outlook to partner youths coming into the workplace. We are humbled by the many learnings from more than 10,500 youth who have shared with us their aspirations, concerns and challenges. Now, our programmes like the new Career Mentorship Hub, pilot Career Starter Lab and NTUC Starter Membership, are initiatives that NTUC is putting on the table as a trusted partner to support our youth in kickstarting their careers and be alongside them. There are still many things that we will discover along the way and NTUC hopes to be able to partner our youth to continue to innovate and find better ways to serve them as they transition from school to work and co-create the future of work and workplace with them.” 

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Remember, youths… you(TH) got this! NTUC is here to help you unlock your potential and pave the way for a bright future. So go ahead, spread your wings, and soar high! 

For the full publication of the report, please visit www.yntuc.sg/ytfreport 

By Hannah