Trends in Employee Training and Skill Development in Singaporean Companies: A Five-Year Analysis (2018–2023)

Abstract

This study investigates the evolving trends in employee training and skill development in Singaporean companies from 2018 to 2023, focusing on key areas such as digital skills, leadership, innovation, and employee engagement. Using publicly available annual reports from 12 prominent companies across five industries—Finance, Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Real Estate—keyword frequency analysis and industry comparisons were conducted to identify patterns in training priorities. The results indicate a notable increase in the emphasis on digital skills and leadership development, particularly within the Finance and Technology sectors, reflecting the broader trend of digital transformation and innovation. While employee engagement showed varying trends, particularly spiking in Healthcare during the pandemic, the focus on innovation remained crucial across all sectors, especially in Manufacturing. The findings suggest that Singaporean companies are adapting their training strategies to meet industry-specific challenges and global trends. The study offers practical recommendations for businesses to prioritize digital skills and leadership training and highlights the need for targeted strategies to enhance employee engagement and innovation.