NTUC LearningHub: Nurturing Learning and Professional Growth

In the ever-evolving landscape of Continuing Education and Training (CET), NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) stands as a reliable anchor amid the constant changes. Whether you’re at the helm of a business or navigating the complexities of the corporate world, consider this article your window into NTUC LHUB—a glimpse into its journey, strategic approaches, and its role in not merely shaping intellects and helping businesses but also, cultivating a culture of continual learning.

From left to right: Mr Ng Chee Meng, Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress, together with Mr Jeremy Ong, CEO, NTUC LHUB, officiating the launch of NTUC LHUB Retail Institute 

Q1: How is NTUC LHUB staying competitive and setting itself apart in Continuing Education and Training in Singapore?

NTUC LHUB is committed to transforming lives by providing affordable and accessible lifelong learning opportunities. Dedicated to enhancing workforce employability in today’s rapidly evolving digital age, the organisation’s mission is to realise “Every Worker a Better Worker, Every Job a Better Job, and Every Company a Better Company” by fostering a culture of continuous learning across different sectors.

Positioned to be the nexus of the training and learning landscape, NTUC LHUB aims to create a holistic learning ecosystem which brings together relevant and quality training programmes that lead to job outcomes, optimal funding for all good and relevant programmes and offering diverse training pathways such as stackable credentials so that workers are fast-tracked at NTUC LHUB to earn higher qualifications that enhance employability and boost career trajectories.

NTUC LHUB’s digital learning platform LXP — The NTUC LearningHub Learning eXperience Platform (LXP) is a one-stop online learning mobile application that offers timely, bite-sized and quality content for learners to reskill and upskill at their own pace, anytime and anywhere. Beyond learning, LXP also serves as a platform for jobs and skills development for both workers and companies. And being part of the tripartite labour movement network, NTUC LHUB is well-placed to achieve its mission.

Q2: Which sectors or industries does NTUC LHUB focus on in its programs and courses?

NTUC LHUB strategically focuses on 13 key sectors, covering Technology, Retail, Food Services, Healthcare, Sustainability, Tourism and more. This broad yet sector-specific approach provides a centralised hub for upskilling and reskilling employees across diverse industries and ensures that individuals are not just proficient but also strategic assets contributing to organisational success. In addition to vertical skills training, NTUC LHUB also focuses on horizontal skills training in critical core skills (soft skills) and tech-lite skills that help individuals to be agile, adaptable, and digitally savvy. This approach ensures that the workforce is well-rounded and equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in the evolving job market.

Q3: How does NTUC LHUB promote lifelong employability?

At the core of NTUC LHUB’s mission is to drive the lifelong employability of workers in Singapore through fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Its unique position within the tripartite ecosystem allows it to identify and aggregate skills demand, thereby ensuring that it provides the relevant skills training to equip workers with the in-demand and emerging skills to remain employable in the present and are future-ready. The organisation’s dedication to continuous improvement means that training is not static but a dynamic, evolving process aligned with changing business needs.

Q4: How does NTUC LHUB continuously improve its courses and services to meet changing needs?

NTUC LHUB’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in its customised learning solutions tailored to organisational needs. This ensures that training aligns with the unique and evolving needs of businesses. For business owners, this means having a training partner that is responsive and committed to enhancing the skill set of their workforce in line with industry expectations. And of course, its unique position within the tripartite ecosystem allows it to identify and aggregate skills demand from companies and industries, thereby ensuring that it provides the relevant skills training to equip workers with the in-demand and emerging skills.

Q5: How does NTUC LHUB stay current with trends and technologies in education and training?

NTUC LHUB’s strategic partnerships with best-in-class industry leaders such as Microsoft, AWS, and ServiceNow demonstrate its commitment to cutting-edge technologies.

As the world accelerates its efforts to transition towards a sustainable future, there is a growing need for talent with relevant skills in the green economy. To meet the growing skills demand in the sustainability sector, NTUC LHUB launched the ‘LHUB for Sustainability’ branding which champions a movement to drive skills training and employment opportunities in the sustainability space. An example is NTUC LHUB’s partnership with the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS) to roll out Singapore’s first sustainability-focused MICE and event professional certification programme.

Furthermore, NTUC LHUB’s Think Tank reports serve as a cornerstone in solidifying the organisation’s position as a Thought Leader in the Continuing Education and Training space and also, within the various sectors. This proactive approach not only allows NTUC LHUB to stay abreast of latest market trends and industry needs but also enables the organisation to tailor its programs and product offerings accordingly, ensuring that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of its stakeholders. Through these reports, NTUC LHUB makes significant contributions to the broader discourse within relevant industries, fostering innovation, and driving positive change.

Q6: How does NTUC LHUB collaborate with other organisations to drive innovation?

NTUC LHUB’s embracement of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Internet of Things positions it as an innovator in the CET space. For corporate professionals, this represents an opportunity to engage with state-of-the-art technologies, fostering innovation within their organisations. Collaborations with Netatech for the Agritech Lab@Benoi for example, showcase the organisation’s commitment to providing immersive experiences for trainees. As NTUC LHUB’s inaugural agritech training facility, the Agritech Lab@Benoi was designed to cultivate a new generation of ‘green-collared’ professionals to bolster Singapore’s budding agritech sector. Covering key domains of Urban Farming and Farm Technology, Quality Standards and Food Safety, Business Planning, Sales and Marketing Strategy, and E-commerce, the programme equips trainees with sought-after skills and knowledge crucial for success in this industry.

Q7: How will NTUC LHUB continue to be innovative and responsive to market trends?

NTUC LHUB’s strategy involves constant engagement with employers and collaboration with industry leaders and other stakeholders to aggregate the demand of skills so as to provide the relevant skills training to the workforce. For example, in response to the rising demand for sustainability-trained professionals, NTUC LHUB collaborated with the academy division of TÜV SÜD in Singapore. TÜV SÜD is an internationally recognized provider of safety, quality, security and sustainability solutions. Together, they have introduced the Professional Certification in Business Sustainability Management ISO Standards, a programme that supports learners who aspire to equip themselves with market-ready competencies to take on in-demand sustainability-related job roles. The organisation’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry demands ensures that professionals are equipped with skills that are not just current but future-ready.

Q8: How does NTUC LHUB differentiate itself and communicate its unique value proposition?

NTUC LHUB’s differentiation is communicated through in-house industry insights reports and success story features. For business owners, this means gaining insights from experts and actionable information that underscores the importance of upskilling and reskilling. The annual brand campaign, leveraging social channels and out-of-home advertisements, ensures that the organisation’s unique value proposition reaches a wide audience.

Through success stories, NTUC LHUB frequently highlights its trainees in the media, spotlighting their inspiring learning journeys. These narratives illustrate how trainees have utilised newly acquired skills and knowledge to achieve tangible outcomes, such as advancing within their current job role or securing meaningful employment in new industries. Through these stories, NTUC LHUB celebrates the transformative power of education and training, inspiring others to embark on their own learning journey toward personal and professional growth.

Q9: What marketing strategies does NTUC LHUB employ to attract its target audience?

For business owners and corporate professionals, NTUC LHUB’s performance-driven marketing strategy stands out. Regular marketing campaigns, optimisation of digital platforms, exclusive partnerships with industry leaders, and collaboration with best-in-class content partners indicate a strategic approach. Engaging in think tank endeavours and white paper reports on top skills and trends in Singapore positions NTUC LHUB as a thought leader, attracting professionals seeking valuable insights and expertise.

NTUC LHUB has established sales centres and branches across strategic locations to enhance accessibility and extend the organisation’s reach to customers. These physical locations serve as hubs where potential customers can engage directly with the NTUC LHUB team, receive personalised assistance, and explore the diverse range of programmes and services offered. Moreover, NTUC LHUB’s participation in roadshows further amplifies its presence and engagement with the community. Through these initiatives, NTUC LHUB actively fosters connections with individuals and organisations, making quality training and development accessible to all.

Q10: How does NTUC LHUB measure the effectiveness of its branding and marketing efforts?

NTUC LHUB gauges effectiveness through media citations, global recognition, and senior management participation in both local and international events. The organisation consistently reviews post-branding and marketing campaigns to understand their impact and effectiveness, and identify areas for enhancement. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that NTUC LHUB remains responsive to evolving consumer needs. For business owners, this demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability. The organisation’s regular engagement on social media and with news agencies ensures that messaging is not only effective but also continually refined to meet evolving audience needs.

Q11: Interesting facts about NTUC LHUB

NTUC LHUB’s inclusion in ‘Training Industry’s Watch List for Companies in IT and Technical Training for 2022 and 2023 is a notable milestone. The organisation’s recognition on this list signifies its presence and relevance in the Continuous Education and Training industry in Singapore, especially in the area of technology. As the only Southeast Asian organisation on this prestigious list, NTUC LHUB’s inclusion showcases its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality training programs and services that cater to the evolving needs of clients and emerging industries.

NTUC LHUB will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024 which marks a significant milestone. NTUC LHUB’s journey unfolds as a narrative of foresight, adaptability, and educational excellence. For businesses and corporate professionals, the organisation emerges as a strategic partner, actively contributing to the growth and success of organizations through its commitment to innovation, customization, and a customer-centric approach. In addition, NTUC LHUB stands not only as a testament to career advancement but also as a catalyst for the continuous evolution of Singapore’s workforce in an ever-changing global landscape.