Community Development Councils Expand Roles with Job-Matching Initiative

SINGAPORE: Community Development Councils (CDCs) are set to enhance their roles in supporting residents through a new job-matching initiative. Announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during the National Day Rally on August 17, 2023, this initiative aims to connect jobseekers with employment opportunities closer to their homes.

In a media release on October 11, the People’s Association stated that the CDCs will take on expanded responsibilities as “aggregators and connectors” in their communities. This approach includes facilitating job placement and promoting volunteerism across various districts.

Jobs Nearby @ CDC Initiative

The program, named Jobs Nearby @ CDC, is designed to assist residents in finding jobs in their vicinity while also addressing manpower challenges faced by local businesses. According to the People’s Association, the initiative leverages the strong local networks that CDCs maintain with merchants, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and community partners. The South West CDC piloted the program on August 31, 2023, with plans for a full rollout across all five CDCs by the end of October.

Prime Minister Wong emphasized the importance of this initiative at the rally, highlighting the CDCs’ capability to effectively link jobseekers with suitable vacancies. By doing so, the initiative aims to not only support jobseekers but also bolster the local economy by aiding businesses in need of workers.

Encouraging Volunteerism and Community Engagement

In addition to job matching, CDCs will serve as facilitators for volunteerism, reflecting the theme of a “we first” society that Mr. Wong discussed. The People’s Association noted that CDCs will mobilize stakeholders in their respective districts to aggregate volunteer opportunities. They will encourage individuals and organizations to contribute their time and skills to community projects, thereby fostering a culture of mutual support.

CDCs will collaborate with local grassroots organizations to create “micro communities of help,” where neighbors can support each other. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and encourage a more cohesive society.

CDCs function as a bridge between the government and the community. There are five CDCs in Singapore, each led by a mayor, tasked with addressing local needs and enhancing residents’ quality of life.

On the same day, the People’s Association announced adjustments to the geographical boundaries of CDCs, aiming to balance population sizes. The South East district, which has a population of 474,359, is currently the smallest, while the North East district has a population of 1,044,826. As a result of this realignment, residents of Aljunied GRC and Hougang SMC will now be served by the South East CDC instead of the North East CDC. Support for individuals currently enrolled in programs through the North East CDC will continue under the South East CDC.

The changes will be officially gazetted on October 13, 2023. South East Mayor Dinesh Vasu Dash welcomed the new residents and expressed commitment to building community initiatives that resonate with the needs of the area. North East Mayor Baey Yam Keng stated that his district would coordinate closely with the South East CDC to ensure a seamless transition for residents.

Overall, these initiatives represent a significant step towards enhancing community engagement and support systems within Singapore, aligning with the government’s vision for a more inclusive society.