As Singapore’s Next Generation Prepares for the Workforce, Young Voices Call for Change
With Singapore’s 2025 General Election on the horizon, many young Singaporeans are looking beyond politics to the broader concerns shaping their future. Among them is Stefanie Foo, a 23-year-old final-year student at Singapore Management University (SMU), who is preparing for her first-ever vote while grappling with uncertainties about employment and the evolving job market.
The Uncertainty of the Job Market
Stefanie, like many of her peers, faces tough questions about career prospects. While pursuing degrees in Communications Management and Sustainability Management, she has watched recent graduates struggle to secure stable employment, even after completing multiple internships.
“It’s discouraging to see how difficult it is to land a full-time job, even with work experience,” she shares. “Many graduates are forced to continue taking internships because companies prioritise short-term hires over long-term employees.”
A key issue, she believes, is that job market trends shift faster than university curriculums, leaving fresh graduates at a disadvantage compared to experienced professionals re-entering the workforce after layoffs. She suggests that education reform could help bridge the gap, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the right skills to meet industry demands.
The Competitive Pressure of Singapore’s Workforce
The fierce work culture in Singapore also drives many young professionals to consider relocating abroad, where work-life balance and cost of living may be more favourable.
“Our education system reinforces this competitiveness,” Stefanie explains. “Students feel the pressure to accumulate leadership roles, certifications, and internships just to keep up. It’s an endless cycle—if you don’t stand out, you get left behind.”
This high-pressure mindset extends into the workplace, where fresh graduates feel the need to constantly outperform their peers to secure career progression.
Encouraging Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Beyond employment concerns, Stefanie believes entrepreneurship could be a key solution to Singapore’s economic challenges. She advocates for greater support for start-ups, particularly in reducing financial risks for young entrepreneurs.
“If we can lower the barriers to starting a business, we might see more innovation and job creation,” she suggests. However, the high cost of living and rental rates make it difficult for individuals to leave stable careers to pursue new ventures.
A Call for Balance and Well-Being
While Singapore is known for its rapid growth and efficiency, Stefanie hopes the country will slow down and prioritise personal well-being.
“It’s easy to put off spending time with family and friends because we’re so focused on work or school,” she says. “But we need to make time for our relationships and take care of our physical health.”
With Singapore projected to become a “super-aged” society by 2026, she emphasises the importance of promoting healthier lifestyles to ensure people can age well and remain active.
A Vision for 2030: A More Inclusive and Compassionate Singapore
Despite the challenges, Stefanie remains optimistic about Singapore’s future. She envisions a more inclusive society where cultural diversity, kindness, and accessibility are valued.
“I hope we continue to embrace multiculturalism and respect different perspectives,” she says. “A Singapore where everyone feels accepted and supported is a place I would be proud to call home.”
