SIMPDF Strengthens Education-to-Employment Pathways Through New Partnership

25 March 2026

(From left) Mr Stephen Chin, Principal, Assumption Pathway School; Madam Sung Mee Har, Principal, NorthLight School;  Ms Euleen Goh, Chairman of SIM Group; Mr Patrick Tay, Chairman of SIMPDF; Minister for Education and Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration, Mr Desmond Lee; Mr Benjamin Kwok, Principal, Crest Secondary School; and Mr Tan Teck Hock, Principal, Spectra Secondary School at the SIMPDF MoU signing ceremony. 

The SIM People Development Fund (SIMPDF) has signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Assumption Pathway School, NorthLight School, Crest Secondary School, and Spectra Secondary School, committing up to S$600,000 from 2026 to 2028 to support over 200 students.
 
Through this partnership, SIMPDF will provide up to S$50,000 annually per school via two initiatives: the SIMPDF Progression Awards, which support disadvantaged students advancing in education or training, and the SIMPDF Apprenticeship Awards, which fund internships and workplace placements.
 
Held at the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), the signing was witnessed by Minister for Education and Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration, Mr Desmond Lee.
 
Funded through the SIM Impact Fund, the collaboration aims to strengthen pathways from education to employment, equipping students with skills and opportunities for meaningful careers. It also supports SIMPDF’s 4D strategy, particularly the “Dependent” pillar, which focuses on individuals with higher and special educational needs.
 
Chairman of SIMPDF, Mr Patrick Tay, said, “Strengthening pathways from learning to employment is key to ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to succeed. This collaboration with MOE and the four schools enables us to provide students with greater access to skills development and employment opportunities, supporting their journey towards meaningful and sustainable careers.”
 
This collaboration reflects SIMPDF’s continued commitment to expanding access to education and enhancing employability outcomes. By bridging academic learning with real-world experience, SIM aims to create more inclusive opportunities for individuals to thrive in an evolving workforce.