SINGAPORE - Public transport operator SBS Transit is committing $1 million to its Rail Training Institute, which will use virtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies that blend physical and digital tools to train staff.
Located at SBS Transit’s North East Line Depot in Sengkang, the facility will provide training for around 2,500 employees in rail operations. They include new joiners and experienced staff needing refresher training.
The opening of the Rail Training Institute on Friday was officiated by Mr Desmond Tan, deputy secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office.
SBS Transit said the training modules will be divided into smaller and more targeted courses, which can be accessed conveniently during off-peak times.
Mr Jeffrey Sim, chief executive of SBS Transit Rail, said the operator decided to set up the institute to ensure its staff are equipped with the skill sets to meet future demands.
Simulators that utilise virtual technology will allow employees to be trained without interrupting operations, he added.
Mr Sim said the tools employed at the institute will allow training time to be cut as well. He cited the example of a signalling technician, who currently has to undergo 12 months of training before being deployed.
With the new training approach, this is shortened to between four and six months.
The technician could also “top up” other skills needed on a just-in-time basis as he gains actual work experience.
At the opening of the institute on Friday, SBS Transit signed a memorandum of understanding with education and training provider NTUC LearningHub, to train transport workers over the next three years under the Skills Framework of SkillsFuture Singapore.
The framework will be used to train and certify bus drivers, as well as bus and rail technicians, in various scopes of their work.
SBS Transit said that trainers and facilitators from NTUC LearningHub will help develop the training programmes. They will be “on the ground” at the depot to identify specific learning needs for the industry.
Group chief executive of SBS Transit Cheng Siak Kian said that the company wants to provide employees with training that will help to “strengthen their competencies and develop both technical and soft skills” for their career development.
