Canada’s industrial competitiveness and ability to generate wealth depend heavily on our ‘human capital’. However, structural trends are now apparent that will affect Canada’s labour force dramatically by 2010.
Document Highlights
By 2010 the skills gap in Canada will worsen. In the short term, Canadians can reduce the gap by providing flexible work regimes for older workers, attracting more skilled immigrants and recognizing their qualifications, and reducing barriers to mobility. In the longer term, attitudes have to change among our youth regarding career choices and among our employers who must provide more school-to-work transitions and co-operative education opportunities.
Canada’s net labour force growth will come primarily from immigration. We need to evaluate and recognize their international credentials in a timely manner
There is a major ‘learning recognition gap’ that affects well over half a million Canadians – and they are unemployed or underemployed because of it. Educators, employers and governments can correct this by addressing the long-standing institutional and provincial barriers to certification and recognition of qualifications.
Canada needs to develop policies and practices that ensure that all students will earn a diploma consistent with their aptitudes and abilities.
Increasing business-education partnerships and co-op programs must become a national priority.
The shortage of skilled trades needs special attention – attitudes and systems need to change.
Major changes are needed to ensure that more Aboriginal youth graduate from high school and have access to post-secondary training and education.
There are no reviews yet.