[ad_1]
SINGAPORE: Insurance provider AIA Singapore has committed to creating up to 500 job opportunities for recent graduates and mid-career job seekers to help cushion the blow of rising unemployment amid COVID-19.
Successful candidates will undergo a 10-month initial training program, leading to three certifications in finance and investment.
Financial support of between S $ 2,000 and S $ 5,000 per month will be provided during the program, with a bonus awarded upon completion of certain training modules.
“At a time when so many are affected by downsizing or struggling to find work, it is vital that we support Singaporeans and permanent residents by creating long-term and sustainable career opportunities,” said Ms. Wong Sze Keed, CEO of AIA Singapore in a press release on Monday (September 21).
“The AIA Financial Career Scheme 2020 equips individuals with the financial skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a new career in the financial services industry,” he added.
The scheme is a collaboration between AIA Singapore and AIA Investment Management.
READ: Layoffs in Singapore on the rise in the first half of the year, surpassing the peak of SARS: MOM
AIA’s hiring initiative comes with a surge in downsizing and unemployment in Singapore as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to hit the economy.
In Singapore, downsizing has skyrocketed along with the unemployment rate. In June, 89,700 residents were unemployed, up from 76,200 in March. Layoffs rose dramatically to 11,350 in the first half of the year, surpassing the 10,120 recorded during the SARS period.
Amid the employment situation, the public sector, as well as several corporations, including Citi, DBS, EtonHouse, Jumbo Group, and Commonwealth Capital, have promised labor commitments.
“By sharing our experience and industry knowledge, candidates will embark on fulfilling and successful careers, contributing to Singapore’s economic future well beyond COVID-19,” said Ms Wong.
READ: Comment: Bolder measures are needed to guard against job losses heading towards Singapore
Those who meet the requirements will enroll progressively between September 15 this year and March 31 next year.
After the initial 10-month program, further training courses will be offered over a two-year period based on individual candidates’ preferences and development needs, AIA Singapore said.
A mentor will be assigned to all selected candidates.
The mentor “will partner and guide them towards successful program completion and potentially a rewarding career with AIA Singapore or AIA Financial Advisers as AIA Premier Consultant,” the insurer said.
CHECK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the coronavirus outbreak and its developments
Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
