The Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) has launched a new training framework for the assembly and test sector, which is part of the semiconductor industry.

The Assembly and Test Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications framework comprises three qualifications, which covers workers from rank-and-file to professionals, managers, executives and technicians. The WDA will provide course fee grants and absentee payroll funding for companies who train workers under this framework.

By the end of 2014, 1,500 workers are expected to have been trained under it. At the launch Thursday morning, National Trades Union Congress deputy secretary-general Heng Chee How said the industry is facing downward pressure, and must transform and progress to succeed.

The framework was developed by the WDA in partnership with the United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries and several multinational firms.