Low takeup rate of training places

According to the Straits Times, there is a low take up rate of training places. Small businesses are not sending their workers for training and skill upgrading.

The government leaders and planners should not continue to live in their own world.  Their policies and strategies for the past decades have not worked. To get better results, they have to understand the real issues facing the small businesses and the workers.

Business conditions are difficult. Small businesses are not able to get a decent margin, due to excessive competition and wasteful activities. The cost of running a business is high, compounded by unnecessary activities  such as compliance with GST and other requirements.

The workers have to work long hours and do not have the time, energy or attention to be upgraded.

Tan Kin Lian