The information and communications technology (ICT) sector is still facing an acute skills shortage despite a recent slew of initiatives to boost talent in the industry A study by SMU, in partnership with J.P. Morgan, has found that demand for ICT workers is expected to keep rising and the labour market is struggling to keep up. The report outlined skills challenges facing Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand. The study also found that electronics and electrical engineering manufacturing - the largest component of Singapore's manufacturing base - faces a significant skills gap. A lack of necessary work experience and specialist skills as well as the perceived uncompetitive pay are key reasons why engineers are shunning the industry.