July 17, 2015
Province Announces First Jobs Strategy Tour to Connect Graduates to Work Opportunities
– – –Tour will Encourage Manitobans to Share Experiences, Learn More about First Jobs Strategy: Minister Chief
University students will have more support starting their careers after graduating through new initiatives in the recently released First Jobs Strategy including the creation of a $1.5-million fund, Jobs and the Economy Minister Kevin Chief announced today.
“Our economy is growing and Manitoba businesses want to make sure our young people have the chance to be a part of it,” said Minister Chief. “Working together, we will make sure they have the exposure to the opportunities waiting for them, connections with future employers and the support they need as they start their careers.”
The fund and strategy will put in place an employment connection program that will include:
- a dedicated First Jobs Strategy intake co-ordinator who will be the first contact for recent graduates looking to enter the workforce and connect graduates to job resources and online tools,
- partnering with post-secondary partners to create more co-op programs so students have access to on-the-job training as part of their university experience, and
- providing more opportunities for recent graduates to find entry-level positions in the public service.
This summer, Minister Chief will be travelling to several communities to speak with Manitoba students, businesses, non-profit organizations and other stakeholders about the First Jobs Strategy. The tour will focus on exploring the best ways to design programming that will help connect new graduates to rewarding careers, the minister said.
“Most students want to be able to work in the field they’re going to school to support themselves financially,” said Kayla Lawson, a working university student. “The strategy helps create opportunities for students to demonstrate their abilities.”
Over the next two years, young Manitobans looking for work experience will be able to access targeted services and supports. Resources will include job search, employment counseling and resume building services and wage subsidies.
More information about the First Jobs Strategy and Career Builder Guides can be found at www.steadygrowth.ca.
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