Credit where credit’s due : examining the effectiveness of the SkillsFuture credit scheme in fostering a lifelong learning culture

Abstract

This paper evaluates the SkillsFuture Credit scheme in Singapore against the backdrop of a wide and still growing field of literature in adult lifelong learning. Its significance lies in the recent announcement of a top-up with an expiration following a lack of review since its inception almost five years ago. Through a mixed-methods research design, this paper elucidates the motivations and barriers to entry for lifelong learning in the context of the SkillsFuture Credit scheme in Singapore, and examines citizens’ perceptions and satisfaction of the policy. The results reveal that while survey respondents were generally satisfied with the policy, a huge proportion of respondents and interviewees perceived cost and time pressures as barriers to policy participation. Findings from interviews also suggest that such perceptions are aggravated by the misconception that SkillsFuture Credit was conceived out of a primarily economic agenda by the government. We recommend that the government take a more active role in communicating policy intentions, clarifying its learning policy network, and standardising marketing terms with relevant stakeholders, to better fulfil the long-term goals of promoting lifelong learning.