Singapore leads in AI readiness but faces talent gap

Coursera’s index ranks Singapore first in AI maturity.

Singapore now ranks as the world’s most AI-ready nation, topping Coursera’s AI Maturity Index. The recognition comes as 97% of firms in the city-state run AI programs, but 83% still cite talent shortages.

According to Patrick Supanc, Chief Product Officer at Coursera, Singapore’s lead stems from long-term investments in education, technology, and government-driven programs. “The focus of the government on programs like SkillsFuture is very important in terms of creating energy and incentives around continuous skilling and re-skilling around AI.”

Melissa Yoong, Director of Government Affairs, Microsoft Singapore, added that policy and partnerships reinforce this foundation. “Singapore has always had a strong culture of lifelong learning and a national commitment to upskilling. It's also been well buoyed by the robust national AI strategy 2.0 which focuses on scaling AI talent, deploying AI for public good, and positioning Singapore as a global AI hub.”

Despite progress, both experts flagged structural challenges. Supanc said, “I think the pace of change can still outstrip training cycles… broadening that familiarity with AI is incredibly important and raises the level for everybody.”

Yoong cited hiring trends driving shortages. “Microsoft's recent Work Trend Index report found that in Singapore, over 70% of leaders are only hiring candidates with AI skills, and 80% of leaders are creating new AI specific roles. That's higher than the global average.”

Sustainability also remains a concern. Supanc emphasised, “It's important to think about this as a continuous upskilling effort, not just a one time upskilling effort in order to stay on top of things and stay fresh.”

Yoong said embedding learning into workplace culture is key. “Over a third of our workforce is actively upskilling online supported by the government and employers. That's not just a statistic. It's a signal that Singapore is building an AI ready society where capability matters more than credentials.”

Both warned of risks if firms run AI programs without adequate talent. Supanc pointed to “wasted investment through misapplication of the technology,” along with bias and security lapses. Yoong cautioned that “AI programs risk operational inefficiency, poor implementation, and increased security vulnerabilities.”