The Singapore government has pledged S$100m ($720,000) towards improving its rail training, with investment in new simulation equipment planned.
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport, Khaw Boon Wan unveiled the Rail Manpower Development Package (RMDP). The Public Transport Operators (PTOs) and National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) co-developed the RMDP. It aims to prepare workers to run an expanded and more complex rail system.
Singapore will introduce three new rail lines over the next decade. This expansion coincides with upgrades to ageing rail assets and adoption of new operations and maintenance technologies. These include remote condition sensors and augmented reality to achieve greater cost efficiencies.
Singapore said the RMDP enhances existing training programmes offered by the PTOs and initiatives supported by Workforce Singapore and SkillsFuture Singapore.
The RMDP comprises manpower development incentives, new scholarships and co-investments in training equipment. These include simulators or virtual reality equipment that help support more hands-on training.