The Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB), in partnership with SG Enable, has launched the Tech4Good Programme to foster inclusive employment within Singapore’s technology sector. The initiative was unveiled at the Tech Talent Assembly Awards & Dinner 2024, held at Carlton Hotel, and attended by approximately 160 guests, including government representatives, corporate partners, and award recipients. The event was graced by Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information & National Development, who announced the programme’s debut.
Celebrating employers and individuals driving tech talent growth
The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding efforts to nurture local tech talent and enhance the employability of ICT professionals. Seven employers received the Most Progressive Employers of Tech Talents award for actively supporting their employees’ skills development and career progression.
Eighteen individuals were honoured as Tech Talents of the Year for their commitment to continuous learning and staying resilient in the dynamic tech landscape. Another 13 individuals were recognised with the Tech Talent Builders award for mentoring and developing future tech leaders. This year also saw the introduction of the Strive, Overcome, Adapt, Resilience (SOAR) award, celebrating four women who have overcome significant challenges in the tech industry.
A step forward with the Tech4Good programme
The Tech4Good Programme, developed collaboratively by TTAB and SG Enable, aims to create a more inclusive tech industry by supporting individuals with disabilities and encouraging workplace transformation. It focuses on two key areas:
- Training and Placement: Equipping individuals with disabilities with essential skills to excel in tech roles.
- Advisory Services: Guiding employers to adapt their workplaces to be more accessible and inclusive.
By bridging skill gaps and fostering diversity, the programme positions businesses to tap into a broader talent pool while empowering individuals to succeed. This dual approach underpins the tech sector’s growth, ensuring innovation flourishes alongside inclusivity.
“With rapid technological adoption within companies building a truly inclusive workplace, it’s crucial to address the misconceptions surrounding the abilities of individuals with disabilities (PWDs),” said Mr Benjamin Mah, TTAB’s EXCO Co-opt member and lead for the Tech4Good Chapter. “However, with increased awareness and advocacy, we are paving the way for equitable employment opportunities that not only benefit individuals but also enrich our organisations.”
Supporting inclusivity through partnerships and grants
To bolster its mission, TTAB has enlisted three key partners: Yeo Zhihan from SGTech, Eric Okumu from Korn Ferry, and Joshua Thomas, Nominated Member of Parliament and President of the Security Association of Singapore. Together, they will identify mentors to help companies create meaningful roles for persons with disabilities.
SG Enable, as a specialist agency for disability-inclusive employment, complements the initiative with consultancy, training, and grants. Additionally, TTAB offers support through the Operation & Technology Roadmap (OTR) and helps organisations access the Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant, which co-funds up to 70% of project costs. These grants enable companies to adopt technology, redesign jobs, and create more inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities.
With industries such as healthcare, finance, and education rapidly digitalising, the need for skilled IT professionals has surged. Inclusive hiring practices not only meet this demand but also ensure the workforce reflects diverse perspectives essential for tackling challenges like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and IoT.
The Tech4Good Programme signifies a bold step toward an equitable future for the technology sector, where every individual can contribute meaningfully.
