GenAI course enrollments surge 240% in 2024

Only 32% of GenAI learners in Singapore are women, despite women making up 45% of all Coursera users nationwide.

Singapore is experiencing a sharp rise in Generative AI (GenAI) learning, with Coursera reporting a 240% YoY increase in course enrollments from local learners in 2024. This positions the country as a regional leader in AI adoption.

However, a new report from Coursera reveals a significant gender gap: only 32% of GenAI learners in Singapore are women, despite women making up 45% of all Coursera users nationwide.

Whilst the overall interest in AI is growing, barriers continue to limit women's full participation. Time constraints, caregiving responsibilities, and uncertainty about career paths remain common hurdles.

Confidence also plays a role—Singaporean women are six times more likely to enroll in beginner-level GenAI courses than intermediate ones.

Still, there are encouraging signs: in Singapore, the top 10 GenAI courses for both men and women are identical.

Women in Singapore have shown a stronger appetite for GenAI than men, with female enrollments growing by 253% in 2024, surpassing the 168% growth amongst male learners.

However, the challenge lies in translating this interest into long-term participation and leadership. Despite 38% of Singaporean women holding tech-related degrees, only 25% apply for entry-level tech roles, and just 17% are represented at the manager level, according to a BCG study.

The report highlighted the importance of relevance and representation. Singaporean women are more likely to engage with GenAI when its applications are linked to practical sectors like healthcare, education, and creative industries.

Moreover, Coursera data showed that courses featuring at least one female instructor attract 7% more female learners.

Whilst female STEM participation in Singapore has improved from 30% in 2019 to 35% in 2024, the need for more women educators, mentors, and role models in AI remains critical.