New Study Examines ON Employers’ Views on International Students

Source: York University via Academica

Employers in Ontario might be more willing to hire international students if they are confident about the support governments and universities might offer them, according to a new study by researchers at York University. Titled “International students as ideal immigrants: Ontario employers’ perspective,” the report notes that confusion around immigration and work regulations can be a significant barrier to employers when it comes to hiring international students and graduates. The report also found that while employers had a high level of confidence in international students’ hard skills, they were concerned about a lack of communication skills and extracurricular engagement. The report offers a series of recommendations that governments and institutions might follow to address these concerns and others.

Immigrant Employment Projects Get Funding from MB, Canada

Source: Canada News Release via Academica | Aug 21, 2014

The governments of Canada and Manitoba have teamed up to provide $1.1 M to Employment Solutions for Immigrants for 2 projects designed to help immigrant youth reduce barriers to employment. The first project will help 120 immigrant youth gain life and employability skills through workshops and work placements. The second project will provide 20 immigrant youth with job placements in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, transportation, and health care services. “These programs offer newcomer youth with a much better chance of entering the Canadian workplace, not only with enhanced preparation and increased confidence, but also in a field and at a job level that is on a par with their existing skills and experience. In short, these programs set up newcomer youth for career success,” said Executive Director of Employment Solutions for Immigrants Loraine M Nyokong.

Saab’s education initiative to increase employment opportunities

Source: The Hindu Business Line via PwC – EdLive

Saab India announced an employability enhancement and skill development programme for the Indian College Engineering students. Termed the ‘Diploma Employment Enhancement Program (DEEP)’, it is designed to bridge the gap between industry’s requirements and technical education. The first pilot classes in collaboration with the Indian Technical Institutes will start in December. Saab India, the Indian subsidiary of the Swedish-headquartered defence and security company, has initiated a skills training programme at institutes in Gudivada and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh. The six-month programme is designed to help engineering students learn and hone the right mix of technical and soft skills while they are still in college.