9-10-2023 (SINGAPORE) Singapore is increasingly deploying robots to address workforce shortages, particularly in labor-intensive industries. These robots not only help businesses tackle the labor crunch but also play a role in nurturing young talent in the robotics sector.
Singapore’s National Robotics Programme, led by Professor Quek Tong Boon, is exploring the implementation of robots in demanding or hazardous roles. These include healthcare robots that can ease the workload of nurses and construction robots capable of inspecting completed buildings. The initiative aims to create opportunities for young talents in the robotics field.
Several industries in Singapore have already adopted robots and smart technologies to handle labor shortages. In some restaurants, robot servers assist in carrying heavy dishes, helping human servers reduce physical strain and focus more on customer service. Additionally, companies like Weston Robot are developing robots, such as a robotic dog for security patrols and intruder monitoring, to attract young people to industries like facilities management.
These robots don’t replace human workers but change the job scope. Young talents are involved in managing and servicing these machines. While there is a growing demand for smart technologies, robot manufacturers face challenges such as talent acquisition. Larger companies can provide more attractive packages to fresh engineers, making it challenging for smaller companies to attract talent.
The development of supporting systems for technologies like delivery robots is also essential. For instance, these robots currently cannot access building elevators to deliver food to different floors. Singapore hopes that the public sector can lead the way in adopting automation to bridge the gap between human and machine.
In the robotics field, there is a growing presence of women, with over 35% of participants at the FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics competition held in Singapore. Women like Jane Wang, co-founder and CEO of Roceso Technologies, have ventured into developing robotic solutions for healthcare needs.
Singapore’s younger generation is also showing a keen interest in robotics. Enrichment centers like the School of Robotics offer students the opportunity to build robots using Lego pieces. Many students are drawn to this field, inspired by the ability to create and understand technology.
Institutions like Ngee Ann Polytechnic have established research laboratories to spark interest in robotics among young talents. These initiatives are not only addressing labor shortages but also nurturing the next generation of robotics enthusiasts in Singapore. As Singapore continues to evolve, the robotics sector is emerging as a pivotal component in meeting labor needs and fostering local talent.
