Singapore launches matchmaking service for government workers
The Singaporean government has launched a pilot matchmaking service called FirstDate for public servants aged 21 to 35. The platform utilizes the Nobel-winning Gale-Shapley algorithm to pair individuals based on their preferences in an effort to address the country's record-low fertility rate.
Why it matters
This initiative highlights how governments are increasingly using technology and data-driven social engineering to address demographic crises like declining birth rates.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Kelly Ng Singapore Getty Images FirstDate launched this week for government workers in Singapore aged 21 to 35 Singapore has rolled out a matchmaking service for its government workers, an initiative that comes as the country wrestles with a record-low fertility rate.
FirstDate, which launched this week for those aged 21 to 35, boasts "a different approach to dating", where it uses a Nobel-winning algorithm to match participants to one date at a time. "Swipe fatigue ends here," its website reads.
Participants sign in using the national digital identity system and answer a survey about their interests, habits and values.
FirstDate's launch drew mixed responses among Singaporeans, with some describing it as "dystopian" and others saying they would be keen to give it a shot.
On its website, FirstDate highlights the Gale-Shapley Stable Marriage algorithm which powers the programme.
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