Practice-Led Case Study of Workforce Transformation through National AI Prompt Design Challenges in Singapore and the Philippines

Abstract

The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has intensified the need to reskill non-technical professionals, who make up the majority of the workforce yet are often left out of AI development initiatives. This practice-led study investigates whether nontechnical knowledge workers can, through structured bootcamps and time-bound competitions, transition from AI consumers to AI creators within hours. Using the Generative AI Capability Framework (comprising knowledge, skills, tools, processes, and culture), the study analyzed nearly 1,100 participants in the National AI Prompt Design Challenges held in Singapore (2024) and the Philippines (2025). Participants received training in large language model fundamentals, prompt engineering, Chain-of-Thought prompting and responsible AI safeguards before building applications on the no-code Capabara platform. Findings show rapid capability gains in knowledge, skills and tool use, particularly among students who demonstrated creativity and agility, while professionals contributed domain grounding but faced execution and integration challenges. Persistent gaps in workflow embedding and responsible AI practices highlight process and culture as the weakest dimensions. Cross-country comparisons revealed Singapore’s maturity in governance but risk aversion, contrasted with the Philippines’ grassroots creativity but weaker safeguards. The study contributes empirical evidence to theories of digital workforce transformation, offering practical insights for educators, organizations and policymakers on designing inclusive capability-building strategies that balance innovation with responsibility.