Another year, another budget. It is that time again, when the federal government pledges to boost the economy, create more jobs and make things better for Canadians. This year, there is special focus on young Canadians and the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the workforce.
The funding for job training comes at an important time, as the number of young people aged 15 to 24 without jobs is as high as ever. The youth unemployment rate in January was 13.9 per cent, according to Statistics Canada.
The Conservative government is dedicating funding for apprenticeships and internships, with Finance Minister Jim Flaherty acknowledging the difficulty young people – even the well educated – face in landing their first job.
The budget allots $40 million towards creating 3,000 full-time internships for graduates in high-demand fields. Another $15 million is set aside for 1,000 internships for small and medium-sized enterprises. In total, this will mean work experience for just 4,000 students. To put that in perspective, two million Canadians were enrolled as post-secondary students in the 2011 to 2012 academic year.
It is no secret that more and more people are attending college and university. A degree is no longer enough – experience is mandatory for even the most basic entry-level jobs. To be considered for employment today means having work experience as well as a diploma.
Education is a necessity for many jobs, but experience is equally important. There are plenty of unpaid internships for those who can afford them – leaving students who cannot forego a paycheque at a disadvantage.
When students graduate without the previous experience critical to starting a job in their field, they are often faced with difficult decisions. On one hand, taking a job below their education level pays the bills, but lacks a career track. On the other hand, getting unpaid experience leaves many in debt.
It is not solely the job of universities and colleges to prepare current students and new graduates for careers that will drive our economy in the future. The government also has a responsibility to support new workers, especially when job numbers and the unemployment rate are bragging points for the Harper government.
The health of the job market relies on experienced and capable employees working at their full potential. To achieve this potential today, students need a head start and a bit of help to get there.
This funding is a good start from the government. It is by no means enough for all students and recent graduates, but its effect will showcase the need for more opportunities.
Young Canadians and the workforce deserve it.