IMDA targets 40,000 tech workers in expanded AI training initiative

With AISG, it will launch the AIxTech AI software engineering programme.The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) plans to expand its TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) programme over the next three years to train 40,000 technology professionals, including final-year Information and Digital Technologies (IDT) students, under the National AI Impact Programme (NAIIP).The agency will introduce artificial intelligence (AI) fluency programmes aimed at helping technology workers keep up with developments in AI.IMDA will co-chair an industry workgroup with Workforce Singapore (WSG), alongside the Singapore Computer Society (SCS), SGTech, and the Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB), an NTUC affiliate, to review how AI is changing technology jobs and update training programmes accordingly.IMDA also announced 21 new Singapore Digital Leaders (SGDLs), bringing the total number in the network to over 1,600 since the programme launched in 2022.Amongst the newly announced SGDLs are Shanice Choo of Clifford Chance, who works on AI applications in the legal sector, and Lum Chune Yang of SpeQtral, whose work focuses on quantum and satellite-based cybersecurity infrastructure.The initiatives are part of broader efforts to build Singapore’s digital workforce and follow an earlier NAIIP target to train 100,000 non-technology workers to become “AI bilingual” by 2029, announced during the 2026 Committee of Supply debate.Separately, IMDA and AI Singapore (AISG) will launch AIxTech, a training programme focused on AI-related software engineering skills and responsible AI use.The course will cover areas such as automating software engineering tasks, integrating AI tools into workflows, and developing agentic AI systems.Participants will have access to a range of AI coding tools, including Claude, Codex, GitHub Copilot, Gemini, Kiro, GLM, and Agnes. The programme will be updated periodically to reflect industry changes.AIxTech will be rolled out in two stages. The first phase consists of 10 self-paced online modules lasting about 18 hours, with coding exercises and learner support from AISG and its community network.The second phase includes post-course support such as $600 in credits for AI coding tools, access to online and in-person practitioner communities, and advanced follow-on modules.The programme will also include training on responsible AI practices, including the use of IMDA AI Verify Foundation governance frameworks and testing tools for traditional, generative, and agentic AI systems.The course fee is set at $180 for Singapore citizens and permanent residents working in technology roles.Self-sponsored participants can use SkillsFuture Credit and NTUC’s Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP) to offset the cost.Final-year IDT students who are citizens or permanent residents will be able to attend free of charge.