New findings show employers have 'great opportunity' to enhance diversity in workplace
Nearly half of employers in Singapore are not offering diversity training programmes in the workplace, prompting calls to enhance their efforts to boost awareness in the workforce.
Findings from foundit's latest survey revealed that 48% of organisations do not have diversity training programmes in place.
Among those who offer training, 36% claim that the programme is mandatory, while 16% were offered non-mandatory options.
However, effectiveness is still questioned after only 21% of those who took the programme reported that they gained significant awareness of diversity.
Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit, said the findings open a "great opportunity" for employers to enhance their diversity efforts.
"Singaporean businesses that seize this opportunity to implement comprehensive DEI strategies will not only create more inclusive environments but also gain a competitive edge in innovation and attracting talent," Garisa said in a statement.
Commitment to diversity
These findings come despite Singapore organisations' strong commitment to diversity in the workplace. According to the report, 36% of the respondents said their workplace is highly or extremely committed to hiring a diverse team. Another 20% perceive a moderate commitment.
Organisations are also adopting various initiatives to ensure equal opportunities, including:
- Diversity-friendly spaces (16%)
- Inviting applications from diverse communities (15%)
- Providing anti-bias training (14%)
- Constantly committing to diversity hiring goals (13%)
More than half of the respondents added that their organisations are responsive to feedback on diversity issues, according to the report.
Garisa said their findings indicate a "nuanced picture of diversity and inclusion" in Singapore.
"While we see promising signs of commitment and awareness from organisations, the real opportunity for organisations is to take the next step to implement these initiatives," the foundit CEO said.
