Singapore - The clinical arm of the Tsao foundation, Hua Mei Training Academy, has introduced a new elderly care training programme that teaches social workers how to cater to an ageing population.

Approved by the Workforce Development Agency, the training programme aims to help social workers attract and retain middle-aged workers, and to develop skills and knowledge with core subjects that include workplace relationships and community and technology. First-level graduates can obtain jobs such as health attendants, home helpers and personal health care assistants.

When asked about the importance of attracting middle-aged workers, Susan Mende, course trainer and director of international relations responded, "Many of the older workers need to be retrained in order to rejoin or to stay in the workforce. As you know, the workforce is one of the strongest resources that Singapore has."

A student of the programme, Joyce Yeo, said the programme would open more opportunities for her, especially since she was rejected several times for not having qualified certifications despite her extensive work experience on elderly care.

The students will also be attached to homes for 23 days, and will obtain a Certificate in Community and Social Services (Senior Services) upon graduation.