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Majority of youths seek support for career planning and building career-related skills: Survey by KPMG, NYC, and IPRS
- Youths recognise the need for crucial soft skills to succeed in the future workforce
- At the Gen2050 Youth Action Forum, the 3P (public, private, people) sectors bring together their expertise to provide mentorship and uplift youths in realising their aspirations
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 Nov 2025 – At the Gen2050 Youth Action Forum, KPMG, the National Youth Council (NYC), and the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) shared findings from a survey gathered from 1,000 youth respondents on their awareness and attitudes towards current affairs and personal growth.
The Forum is a milestone event under the Gen2050 programme, designed to spark critical conversations about global developments and their impact on youths’ lives and futures, exploring how young people perceive and respond to challenges in areas like the future of work and technological advancements. For more information about the Gen2050 programme, please refer to Annex A.
Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Manpower, Mr. Dinesh Vasu Dash, exchanged perspectives on how youths can lead the charge to thrive in an uncertain world during a panel dialogue with industry leaders. Beyond the dialogue, the Gen2050 Youth Action Forum also featured an interactive marketplace with gamified booths to immerse youths in decision-making scenarios, highlighting the complexities of global challenges and the importance of proactive, informed decision-making.
Youths’ aspirations and attitudes towards the future
The survey, conducted by Blackbox Research, found that the majority of youths are aware of and care about global economic developments. The economic uncertainty is a concern and youths said that they hoped to have greater support in career and financial planning.
Amongst key competencies needed to succeed in the workforce, youths surveyed identified communication and interpersonal skills (33 percent), adaptability and lifelong learning (32 percent), and analytical and critical thinking (31 percent) as the most valued competencies.
There is also a demand for more guidance, with 65 percent of youths* indicating that they require more support for career planning. Separately, 58 percent of youths* have also indicated that they need more help with financial planning. [*Within these groups, about 58% are working adults and about 42% are students. This broadly follows the overall sample distribution of the poll.]
Whole-of-Singapore effort to uplift youths and enable them to be changemakers
Half of the respondents recognised that the Government, educational institutions, employers, and the wider society and community do play important roles in supporting them.
The 3P sectors (public, private and people sectors) are helping youths realise their aspirations. The Gen2050 youth action programme by KPMG in Singapore, NYC, and IPRS is one such effort. The programme brings together expertise and support from the 3P sectors in the areas of youth engagement, industry perspectives and mentorship to provide youths with tools, platforms, and opportunities to transform their aspirations into real-world, measurable outcomes.
The Gen2050 youth action programme is part of the SG Youth Plan engagements, a year-long series of engagements to understand youths’ aspirations and concerns. The views and insights garnered from the engagements will directly inform a 5-year action plan on youth development, created by youths, for youths.
“Youths today are discerning in their pursuit of skills — not just chasing trends, but focusing on how these skills can be practically applied to create value in their professions,” said Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG. “The NYC, KPMG, and IPRS survey highlights that the next generation is deeply aware of the need for practical, impactful skills like applying AI to achieve a multiplier effect in the workplace. This underscores the responsibility of institutions and mentors to guide and empower youths, helping them navigate the complexities of value creation and equipping them for the future of work. With nearly 70 percent of KPMG in Singapore’s workforce comprising youths under 35, we are well-positioned to nurture young talent and enable them to lead and innovate in a rapidly evolving world.”
“Platforms like Gen2050 are useful to connect youths with industry leaders and policymakers, to gain insights into emerging shifts that affect the future of work and the kind of skills and attributes required to stay relevant,” said David Chua, Chief Executive Officer, NYC.
Ross Gan, President, IPRS said: “It’s encouraging to see youth prioritising communications and interpersonal skills as key competencies needed to succeed. In a post-truth world of what’s trending on social media, where artificial intelligence is redesigning how businesses create value, the capacity to communicate with clarity, demonstrate empathy and engage authentically with stakeholders for positive impact has never been more relevant. Through our growing tertiary student chapter network and participation in mentoring programmes such as Gen2050, the IPRS enables industry practitioners to share their hard-earned wisdom with aspiring youth to help them succeed and thrive.”
Annex A
ABOUT THE GEN2050 YOUTH ACTION PROGRAMME
The Gen2050 Youth Action Programme, launched in June 2025 by KPMG in Singapore, NYC and IPRS, empowers youths to step up, speak out, and be in front, as they tackle pressing societal challenges and drive meaningful change. This tripartite collaboration brings together expertise from the public, private, and non-profit sectors to provide mentorship, industry insights, and strategic communication skills.
The programme features two distinct tracks to cater to different groups of youths. The first is a structured accelerated programme, which equips selected participants with critical skills such as social entrepreneurship, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and the ability to craft impactful, scalable solutions. Participants will receive mentorship from industry leaders and access to professional networks to refine and implement their ideas. Outstanding projects may even receive funding for implementation and scaling up opportunities.
The second track is a curated engagement series open to all youths, offering opportunities to learn from policymakers, industry professionals, and peers. These dialogues focus on critical societal issues such as AI, social sustainability, and equitable access to digital skills, fostering discussions that contribute to the SG Youth Plan—a five-year action plan reflecting the aspirations of young Singaporeans.
For more information about the Gen2050 Youth Action Programme, visit our website.
About the SG Youth Plan
SG60 is about Building Singapore Together, and how each of us can contribute to a Singapore that we will proudly call home. NYC and its partners are organising a year-long series of engagements for youths to connect with others who are just as passionate about making a difference and taking action to build our shared future. The engagements will culminate in an SG Youth Plan – a five-year action plan created by youths, for youths, and supported by all of us, so that we collectively do our part for Singapore and fellow Singaporeans.
Annex B
Gen2050 Youth Competencies Zone – Details of booths and activities
| Activity | Details |
|
Gen2050 – Step up. Speak out. Be in Front.
|
This zone embodies the key ethos and spirit of Gen2050 – “Step up. Speak out. Be in Front”. Youths are reminded that it starts with the individual voice or the individual initiative before anything meaningful can be inspired at a larger societal scale. |
| Portrait of the Future
|
Generative AI has become increasingly ubiquitous, shaping how we learn, create and connect. In today’s digital age, the real question is not whether youths know how to use advanced technologies, but whether they can harness these tools to reimagine possibilities and drive meaningful change.
In the spirit of cultivating a mindset of innovation and collaboration, youths were invited to co-create a dynamic digital wall using AI-generated visuals, empowering them to translate their aspirations into tangible expressions of the future they want to build. The outcome is an artistic showcase that sparks dialogue and inspires actions. Key presenter: Clara Tusin, 26, Senior Associate, Corporate Transformation, KPMG |
| Menu of Tomorrow
|
In a world where sustainable growth is a business imperative, it is no longer sufficient for enterprises to solely pursue profits at all costs. Long-term resilience is critical to thrive.
This booth uses the popular Singaporean dish of economic rice (cai fan 菜饭) to strengthen youths’ awareness of the key considerations involved in building sustainable, profitable and inclusive businesses. Youths will learn how personal consumption patterns intersect with economic factors such as supply chain disruptions, and broader trends in environmental and social sustainability. Key presenter: Beverly Ang, 24, Associate, ESG, KPMG |
|
The Future of Work
|
What competencies will youths need to succeed in a fast-changing job market? As advanced technologies rapidly transform the future of work, youths will need to look beyond qualifications and job titles to not only remain relevant but also thrive in the new digital age.
This zone will feature a game where youths will need to consider how market shocks affect current jobs and think critically about the skills they will require to adapt to labour market shifts. The zone will also feature a board game by Workforce Singapore, aimed at sparking conversations about essential competencies needed for the future of work. Key presenter: Cheryl Sng, 41, Senior Manager, Personal Tax & Global Mobility Services, KPMG |
Annex C
YOUTHS IN GEN2050
(MEDIA INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST)
| Shermaine Kuah Sze Min
20 years old Year 2, Data Science and Economics, NUS |
Profile: Passionate about social sustainability and community empowerment through innovation.
Interests: Social innovation, leadership, scalable community solutions. Shermaine has been intensely committed to social sustainability and community empowerment through innovation. She sees technology as a tool to craft scalable community solutions and address pressing societal challenges. As a recent leader of the NUS CSC Project Grant-A-Wish (2024–2025), Shermaine orchestrated a massive effort, successfully mobilising 150 volunteers to bring joy and support to over 200 children. This project vividly showcases her extraordinary organisational skills and compassionate leadership in action. Her dedication to service began early, serving as the former President of River Valley High School’s Service Citizenship Society, and extends to her experience as a Volunteer Manager for elderly outreach and as a dedicated youth mentor. A recipient of the prestigious People’s Association Scholarship and multiple academic and service excellence awards, Shermaine’s journey exemplifies her proactive and innovative spirit, leveraging her computational background to make tangible, positive change. |
| Durai Manickam Nizanth
21 years old Year 1, Accountancy, SUSS |
Profile: Driven by a passion for equity and social sustainability, with strong leadership and civic engagement experience.
Interests: Social equity, leadership development, policy advocacy and community engagement. Nizanth is a young leader fuelled by an unwavering passion for social equity and sustainability. His extensive experience in leadership development, policy advocacy and community engagement underscores his commitment to fostering a more just and inclusive society. Nizanth has led and facilitated numerous impactful youth conferences and forums, including national-level dialogues and international discussions. He has engaged in high-level civic platforms and further honed his facilitation skills through youth-led programmes, even serving as a forum theatre performer to spark deeper discussion. His natural ability to guide meaningful conversations and rally diverse groups around critical issues was evident during his tenure as a Student Council leader during Junior College, where he consistently earned recognition through multiple leadership and character awards. In National Service as a manpower clerk, he took on an operational leadership role, overseeing course management and postings for nearly 400 transport operators while strengthening safety culture as the Unit Chief Safety Advocate. He also served as the Welfare and Communications in-charge at the 4th Singapore-Malaysia Youth Leaders Exchange Programme, and was one of four youth leaders selected by the National Youth Council to launch the SG60 Heart & Soul Exhibition with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. He championed the Singapore Management University Mind the GAP Business Case Challenge and played integral roles in policy analysis and diversity workshops. He highlighted comprehensive approaches to tackling societal challenges, which helped position him as an influential and thoughtful voice ready to drive real change. |
| Mohammad Nurhan Bin Raihan
28 years old Master’s in Development Practice Program, Harvard University |
Profile: Global leadership and sustainability advocate with experience in policy, humanitarian work, and strategic partnerships.
Interests: Climate resilience, global policy, technological innovation for sustainability. Nurhan possesses a unique blend of high-level policy acumen, practical humanitarian experience, and technological foresight. As an ambassador for the Institute of Economics & Peace, his influence spans globally—being at the forefront of leading AI-driven sustainability innovations and directing policy frameworks impacting millions of ASEAN citizens. His commitment to humanity extends to the ground level, where he managed emergency aid distribution for a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees mission, raising over $6,000 for displaced Syrian families. Founder of Cool Cities Enterprise (CCSEA) and Country Director for the ASEAN Youth Organisation Singapore, Nurhan plays a pivotal role in driving climate resilience. He has secured over $200,000 in prestigious fellowships across institutions like Harvard and Cambridge. As a published policy researcher and representative at UN forums, he is also the recipient of Oxford University’s esteemed Global Leadership Challenge Title. |
Hashtag: #KPMG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About KPMG
KPMG in Singapore is part of a global organisation of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.
For more detail about our structure, please visit kpmg.com/governance.
For more information, visit kpmg.com.sg
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kpmg-singapore
About the National Youth Council
At NYC, we believe in a world where young people are respected and heard and have the ability to influence and make a difference in the world. Together with our partners, we develop future-ready youth who are committed to Singapore by instilling in them a heart for service, resilience and an enterprising spirit.
About the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore
Incepted in 1970, the Instituted of Public Relations (IPRS) is a society that champions the public relations & communications profession by encouraging progressive best practices, enabling peer networking and establishing accreditation pathways. Through mentorship, continuing education and training, we nurture emerging practitioners and leaders to succeed and thrive.
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For more information about the functionality of E3 Compression Latches, please visit https://www.southco.com or email the 24/7 customer service department at [email protected]
Hashtag: #Southco #E3VISEACTION
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About Southco
Southco, Inc. is the leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered access solutions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we understand that first impressions are lasting impressions in product design. For over 70 years, Southco has helped the world’s most recognized brands create value for their customers with innovative access solutions designed to enhance the touch points of their products in transportation and industrial applications, medical equipment, data centers and more. With unrivalled engineering resources, innovative products and a dedicated global team, Southco delivers the broadest portfolio of premium access solutions available to equipment designers throughout the world.
Southco Asia Limited
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University of London
The University of London (UoL) is one of the most established overseas degree providers in Singapore, having partnered with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) for more than 38 years.
Through this collaboration, students can pursue degrees in fields such as Business, Banking and Finance, Data Science, Economics, and International Relations. The programmes follow the same curricula and are examined by the same academic boards as those in the UK. SIM complements these with academic support, career services, a vibrant campus life and helping students gain a truly global education while staying rooted in Singapore.
University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham, a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities, partners with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) to offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Singapore.
At the undergraduate level, the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Business Management (Top-up) equips students with analytical and strategic skills necessary for today’s competitive business environment.
For postgraduate learners, SIM GE offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA), designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership, strategic management, and decision-making capabilities. The programme blends academic rigour with practical business applications, preparing graduates for senior management roles and global career opportunities.
University of Stirling
The University of Stirling at SIM offers globally recognised, research-led programmes designed to develop career-ready graduates. With flexible learning options, industry-relevant curriculum, and opportunities for global exposure, Stirling equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
For students who prefer an American-style education, the University at Buffalo (UB) offers full U.S. degree programmes at SIM GE. Students can major in Communication, Psychology, or International Trade, earning a degree directly from UB – “a premier U.S. public university in Singapore … at a fraction of the cost” The UB programmes are taught by faculty approved by the home campus, maintaining the same academic standards and assessments as in New York.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta holds a position among the top 4 universities in Canada and is internationally recognized as a leading post-secondary institution, ranking within the top 100 universities worldwide. Its steadfast dedication to excellence in research, teaching, and innovation spans over a century.
RMIT University
RMIT University, based in Melbourne, is another major Australian partner of SIM GE. Known for its industry-focused learning, RMIT’s programmes in Business Management, Marketing, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management are designed with employability in mind.
Students gain hands-on experience through case studies and project-based learning. The partnership allows Singapore students to graduate with the same Australian degree as those studying in Melbourne, often within two to three years.
University of Wollongong
The University of Wollongong (UOW), ranked among the world’s top 200 universities, partners exclusively with SIM Global Education in Singapore to offer IT, business information systems, cybersecurity, and data analytics programs taught by UOW faculty. Since 2005, over 3,000 UOW degrees have been awarded at SIM, with pathways for transfers to Australia and industry internships. Students enjoy access to SIM’s vibrant campus life, academic support, and opportunities for awards from agencies like CSIT and IMDA.
The University of Sydney
Over 3,500 of Singapore’s most talented health professionals have graduated with our nursing and health science related degrees, offered in partnership with SIM GE. The nursing programmes are developed, fully taught and awarded by The University of Sydney and accredited by the Singapore Nursing Board.
La Trobe University
La Trobe University is a public research university located in Melbourne, Australia. It was established in 1964 and is now the third university in the state of Victoria. The university is in the top five per cent of business schools worldwide to have earned an AACSB accreditation for delivering excellence in every aspect of the university’s work.
Monash College
Monash College is fully owned by Monash University, Australia’s largest university. The College is the preferred pathway to Monash University for international students. Through innovative programmes which align with the high standards of Monash University, we equip students for life at university, and beyond.
Grenoble Ecole de Management
Founded in Grenoble, Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) has greatly developed its expertise in the management of technology and innovation—an expertise that is now the foundation of the institution’s excellence and international renown. The school is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA, and is a member of the French ‘Conférence des Grandes Ecoles’.
A Hub for Global Degrees
SIM Global Education offers over 140 full-time and part-time academic programmes from international universities partners.
Students here can earn world-class qualifications, gain exposure to diverse teaching approaches, and access global alumni networks all at lower cost and greater convenience than studying abroad.
As SIM GE highlights, its degrees are “globally recognised, with the same curricula and academic standards as those awarded onshore”
In an increasingly competitive world, these overseas degree options in Singapore offer the best of both worlds – international credentials with local advantage.
References:
- University of London – Teaching Centre: Singapore – https://www.london.ac.uk/study/where-study/teaching-centre/singapore
- SIM Global Education – University of London Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – RMIT University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/rmit-univer…
- SIM Global Education – University at Buffalo – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – University of Alberta – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – University of Birmingham – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – University of Wollongong – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – The University of Sydney – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/the-univers…
- SIM Global Education – La Trobe University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/la-trobe-un…
- SIM Global Education – Grenoble Ecole de Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/grenoble-ec…
- SIM Global Education – Monash College – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/monash-coll…
- SIM Global Education – University of Stirling – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
- SIM Global Education – Overview of Degree and Diploma Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
- SIM Global Education – University Partner Page – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #CareerReady #FutureSkills #HigherEducation #GlobalDegrees
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.
SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.
For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg
Media OutReach
Yunnan Showcases Top 10 Must-try Experiences at Trip.Best: Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked
The event gathered representatives from the Singapore Tourism Board, Trip.com, leading travel agencies from Southeast Asia, international mainstream media, travel influencers, and industry experts. Trip.com business leaders shared data-driven insights into evolving travel consumption patterns in this region, covering entry and exit, accommodation, attractions, and dining trends, before revealing the highly anticipated Trip.Best Southeast Asia Travel Rankings.
Yunnan’s presentation on its “Top 10 Must-try Experiences,” took the audience on an immersive journey from the Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Xishuangbanna Rainforest to the Shangri-La Snow Mountain. These tours integrate intangible cultural heritage, ethnic cuisine, and artisanal crafts, creating authentic experiences for global travelers. Complementing the presentation, an outdoor Yunnan lifestyle experience zone was set up, where guests could savor Yunnan specialties, admire Yi embroidery, and capture memorable moments in traditional ethnic attire.
Yunnan also emphasized its traveler-friendly policies, including the 240-hour visa-free transit for international visitors in nine popular tourist destinations, including Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, and Xishuangbanna, and tax refund benefits for overseas shoppers. Enhanced connectivity through Yunnan’s expanding “air corridor” has significantly boosted passenger traffic between Yunnan and South and Southeast Asia. Kunming Changshui International Airport now offers flights to 37 international destinations, with 32 routes linking directly to South and Southeast Asia.
By leveraging Trip.Best‘s global travel rankings and experiential marketing strategies, Yunnan further solidified its brand presence as an international tourist destination, paving the way for deeper collaboration in Southeast Asia’s tourism market.
Hashtag: #Trip.Best
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