Apprentices currently have 70 programmes to choose from. Most apprenticeship programmes lead to certification at the NTC-2 level and cater to the needs of the manufacturing, technical support,service, commerce and healthcare sectors. There were about 1,983 apprentices registered with ITE in 1999. Since its revamp in 1990, some 1,271 companies have participated in the Apprenticeship Scheme. Under this System, companies can plan, schedule and conduct training programmes that are tailor-made to the needs of their employees.
Training is conducted by company personnel who are qualified industry trainers.
ITE assists companies that wish to conduct OJT programmes and train industry trainers in teaching skills. Employees who have completed these OJT programmes will be awarded certificates by their companies. These certificates can be considered by ITE for progression to relevant NTC-3 courses under the Modular Skills Training programmes. Collaboration with industry One way by which companies and industry groups have supported technical training is through the setting up of industry-based training centres. There were 130 ATCs as at end of 1999, with an intake capacity of about 7,300.