Celebrating the launch of the SMU Resilient Workforces Institute (ResWORK)
We officially launched the SMU Resilient Workforces Institute (ResWORK) on 20 January 2026, marking a key milestone as part of the SMU2030 strategic plan - underscoring SMU’s commitment to research that informs public policy, shapes organisational practice, and strengthens workforce resilience in Singapore.
The launch was graced by Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for Education, and Sustainability and the Environment, and brought together nearly 200 colleagues, students, and partners from government, industry, and academia. Discussions centred on building resilient, future-ready workforces by optimising human–machine collaboration, transforming organisations for AI-enabled workplaces, and maximising societal human capital through inclusive, gainful employment amid rapid technological change.
MoU signing between SkillsFuture Singapore and SMU, represented by Mr Tan Kok Yam, Chief Executive of SkillsFuture Singapore (left), and Professor Alan Chan, Provost of SMU (right).
Presentation of research contribution from Equinix to ResWORK, represented by Ms Leong Yee May, Managing Director of Equinix (left), and Professor Archan Misra, Vice Provost of Research and Interim Director of ResWORK (right).
At the event, SMU and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to mutually identify and drive strategic research on how Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and generational changes in work preferences are transforming job tasks, skills demand and career and learning pathways, and translate these insights into policies that sustain employability and inclusive growth.
SMU also received a $450,000 research contribution from Equinix to support applied research under ResWORK. The contribution will fund a flagship systemic research project examining occupational exposure to artificial intelligence within Singapore's labour market.
Professor Misra then moderated a lively panel discussion with leading international scholars from INSEAD, Peking University, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, exploring Technology, Learning, and the Future of Work. Panellists examined the evolving structures of organisations and labour markets, discussed the promises and perils of AI-enabled tutoring, and took questions from the audience on policy and skill development for entry-level workers.
The final segment of the programme offered a first glimpse into the research taking shape within ResWORK, as selected SMU faculty awardees of the Institute’s inaugural seed grants shared emerging projects that address workforce challenges and opportunities. Presented publicly for the first time, these short pitches highlighted early ideas and research directions that will shape ResWORK’s agenda.
We look forward to the insights, partnerships, and impact that ResWORK will generate in advancing workforce resilience in Singapore.
Media Coverage:
SMU commits S$5 million to new Resilient Workforces Institute amid rapid AI change
The Business Times, pA1
The Business Times, pA1
The Business Times Online (Jan 20)
The Business Times Online (Jan 20)
SMU launches Resilient Workforces Institute to strengthen Singapore’s workforce in the age of AI
Tamil Murasu, p3
Tamil Murasu, p3
Tamil Murasu Online (Jan 20)
Tamil Murasu Online (Jan 20)
SMU establishes Resilient Workforces Institute
8world (Jan 20)
8world (Jan 20)
Computer science and coding jobs see hiring demand fall as they are more exposed to AI disruption
Lianhe Zaobao, p7
Lianhe Zaobao, p7
SMU research findings: decreasing demand for jobs with high AI exposure
Lianhe Zaobao Online (Jan 20)
Lianhe Zaobao Online (Jan 20)
Singapore Management University establishes Institute for Resilient Workforce
Vasantham (8.30pm, Tamil Seithi) (Jan 20)
CNA (10pm, Singapore Tonight) (Jan 20)
Channel 8 (6.30pm, Hello Singapore) (Jan 20)
U100.3 FM, 7pm (Jan 20)
958 Capital FM, 2pm (Jan 20)
Hao FM 96.3, 7pm (Jan 20)
New Resilient Workforces Institute (ResWORK) to advance “workforce resilience and lifelong learning amid accelerating technological change
CNA938, 7.30pm (Jan 20)