A Fairer Way Forward for Singapore’s Workforce
Let’s be honest — living costs in Singapore have gone up , and for years many hardworking people in key jobs like cleaning, security, and office work didn’t see much change in their pay.
To fix this problem, Singapore’s government created the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) — a smart plan that connects getting better at your job with earning more money.
And it’s working. According to The Straits Times, (2024), wages for lower-income workers have increased faster than the national average even after inflation adjustments. This shows real progress that lasts — not just numbers in a report.
PWM goes beyond pay. It aims to create fair chances for all workers to learn new skills, advance, and earn their worth. If you’re a cleaner, driver, or office worker, PWM offers you a clear path to move up — through your abilities, not just how long you’ve worked.
What Is the Progressive Wage Model (PWM)?
The Progressive Wage Model is a plan the government started. Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Workforce Singapore (WSG), and tripartite partners (employers, unions, and the government) created it.
What’s It For?
To link pay raises to skill learning and how well you do your job, not just how long you’ve worked.
PWM works like a career ladder — A step-by-step system that rewards workers for boosting their skills through certified training such as Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ).
Singapore’s Progressive Wage Model (PWM) connects salary boosts to skill improvements and output offering workers a clear route to better pay and job advancement.
Why Did Singapore Introduce PWM?
Before 2012 when PWM started many low-paid workers had jobs that didn’t grow in cleaning, landscaping, and security.
The Government Spotted Two Main Issues:
- Pay stayed flat even as living got pricier.
- People couldn’t learn new skills, which kept them from moving up.
PWM fixed this by tying pay raises to learning new skills and doing better work, which helped both workers and bosses.
PWM makes sure that as workers get better at their jobs, their worth to the company — and their pay — goes up together.
PWMs Currently in Effect
How Does PWM Work?
Think of PWM as a career path that links skills, output, and wages.
Here’s How It Works:
- Begin with a starter wage, based on your job.
- Take WSQ-approved courses to learn job-related skills.
- Boost your output and handle more tasks.
- Climb the pay scale as you get better at your job.
- Get paid more while securing a steady career path.
This framework allows employees to take control of their personal development while helping companies keep a workforce that’s more capable, driven, and committed.
According to MOM’s 2024 report, PWM now has an impact on over 155,000 lower-wage workers across nine sectors and jobs, including 48,600 under Occupational Progressive Wages (OPW).
Why PWM Matters to Workers & Employers
For Workers
PWM provides every employee — no matter their background — a clear roadmap to advance.
Under the Occupational Progressive Wages (OPW), jobs like administrative assistants and drivers now have defined training and pay standards.
With PWM:
- WSQ courses help you gain skills that matter in the industry.
- You grow more confident and become more employable.
- Certification opens doors to better pay and job growth.
Quick Fact:
To climb the wage ladder in PWM-covered jobs, workers must complete relevant WSQ training modules.
For Employers
PWM isn’t a choice — it’s a key part of Singapore’s plan to boost low-wage sectors and foster growth for all.
When employers follow PWM rules, they:
- Keep in line with MOM’s fair job standards.
- Create a workforce that’s more skilled, productive, and driven.
- Boost their company image as employers who care about society.
Read Next: How to Implement the Progressive Wage Model in Your Business – A Step-by-Step Guide
The Role of WSQ Courses in the PWM Framework
WSQ, or Workforce Skills Qualifications, forms the foundation of PWM. This system certifies skills nationwide in Singapore.
SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) creates WSQ courses with help from industry experts. This ensures each module relates to jobs, offers practical knowledge, and focuses on competencies.
Under PWM:
- Workers in specific jobs must complete certain WSQ courses linked to their work.
- How well workers do in training affects their pay and career growth.
But WSQ training has an influence beyond just compliance — it helps create lasting job prospects and skills for the future enabling workers to stay competitive as industries change.
WSQ courses under the Progressive Wage Model help workers gain certified skills to increase wages, boost productivity, and move up in their careers.
WSQ Courses for Occupational Progressive Wage (OPW) Roles
From 2025, the OPW scheme widened PWM coverage to include administrative and driving jobs — two key roles in many organizations.
At Info-Tech Academy, we offer WSQ courses designed for these jobs. Our programs teach students both technical and people skills that match PWM needs and help them work .
Examples of OPW-Related WSQ Courses:
| Course Title | Key Focus | Duration | Mode of Training |
| Effective Office Administration & Digital Tools | Communication, coordination, and digital efficiency | 1 Day (8 Hours) | Classroom |
| Professional Conduct & Customer Service for Admin Roles | Frontline service and process improvement | 1 Day (8 Hours) | Classroom |
| Safe & Efficient Driving Practices (OPW) | Vehicle operation and safety compliance | 2 Days (16 Hours) | Classroom |
You can claim these courses through SkillsFuture and get WSQ Statements of Attainment. This helps you meet PWM requirements and grow your career in the long run.
Why PWM and WSQ Go Hand in Hand
PWM centers on fair wages. WSQ concentrates on skills mastery.
Combined, they create the foundation of Singapore’s skills-based economy — giving power to workers and backing businesses.
| PWM Goal | WSQ Role |
| Raise wages | Certify skills that justify pay increments |
| Improve productivity | Equip workers with modern competencies |
| Strengthen career pathways | Provide continuous upskilling opportunities |
| Support inclusive growth | Make training accessible to all workers |
This teamwork makes sure wage growth stays lasting, trackable, and fair.
Final Thoughts
The Progressive Wage Model aims to create a fairer, future-ready Singapore.
PWM links wage increases to skills and productivity. This approach rewards workers for their efforts and gives employers better performance.
At Info-Tech Academy, we back this goal. We offer OPW training and digital and WSQ-accredited programs to help Singapore’s workers learn and achieve more.
When workers do well, companies grow — and society improves as a whole.
Begin Your PWM Journey Now. Check Out Our WSQ Courses For Admin & Driver Jobs at Info-Tech Academy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) mean?
PWM serves as Singapore’s system that ties wage growth to skill improvements and output enabling workers to earn higher pay as they enhance their abilities.
Which workers does PWM affect?
PWM now applies to employees in industries such as cleaning, security, retail, food services, and OPW positions like admin staff and drivers.
What are WSQ courses and why do they matter for PWM?
WSQ courses give certificates for job-specific skills needed for PWM compliance and help workers boost their efficiency and readiness for their careers.
How does PWM help employers?
PWM gives employers a workforce with better skills, boosts productivity, and ensures they follow Singapore’s fair employment rules.
Where can I take WSQ courses to comply with PWM?
You can find them at approved training centers like Info-Tech Academy, which offers WSQ courses for OPW jobs that you can claim under SkillsFuture.
I’ve always been drawn to the power of writing! As a content writer, I love the challenge of finding the right words to capture the essence of HR, payroll, and accounting software. I enjoy breaking down complex concepts, making technical information easy to understand, and helping businesses see the real impact of the right tools.