Singapore’s AI boom faces a gender gap

Singapore, a rising global hub for AI adoption, is grappling with a significant gender gap in generative AI (GenAI) skills, according to a new report from Coursera. The online learning platform’s Closing the Gender Gap in GenAI Skills playbook highlighted the need for targeted strategies to boost female participation in this rapidly evolving field.

Coursera data revealed that while women make up 45% of all learners in Singapore, only 32% are enrolled in GenAI courses, mirroring global trends. Singapore ranks 14th globally in GenAI enrolments among women, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.

Encouragingly, women’s enrolments in GenAI courses surged by 253% in 2024, outpacing men’s 168% growth rate. A 240% year-on-year increase in overall GenAI enrolments also highlights growing interest, with many leveraging their SkillsFuture credits for Coursera subscriptions.

The playbook identifies key barriers limiting women’s participation in GenAI. Confidence gaps often deter women from advancing beyond beginner-level courses. Still, in Singapore, Coursera data showed that men and women enrolled in the same top 10 GenAI courses, signalling progress in overcoming this challenge.

Time constraints and career progression barriers also play a role, as many women juggle caregiving responsibilities. While 38% of women in Singapore hold tech-related degrees, only 25% apply for entry-level roles, which drops to 17% at the managerial level. Flexible, employer-based upskilling and early exposure to technology-related education are crucial to bridging this gap.

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Another challenge is the perceived lack of relevance of GenAI to various career paths. Women tend to engage more when AI is applied to practical fields like healthcare, education, and creative industries. Additionally, the lack of female role models in AI limits participation. Studies show that STEM courses with female instructors attract 7% higher female enrolment, and Singapore’s female STEM participation has risen from 30% in 2019 to 35% in 2024.

Karine Allouche, Global Head of Enterprise at Coursera, said, “While Singapore has demonstrated an exceptional appetite to understand and harness GenAI technology, it is crucial for the country’s workforce development and international competitiveness that this appetite is shared equally.”

“As the global race towards AI literacy intensifies, expanding opportunities for women in GenAI, equipping them with these critical skills, and empowering them to lead in the digital economy remains an urgent priority. By empowering more women, we can ensure AI is built by diverse voices, for the world.”