Canada invests in Newcomers
Government of Canada invests $5.6 million in La Factry skills training initiative for new Canadians
The evolving job market often leaves workers under-equipped to meet job requirements, leading to difficulties for employers in filling vacancies. This problem often impacts newcomers, who might have valuable experience but struggle to effectively integrate into the workforce. To tackle this issue, the Canadian government is funding initiatives aimed at enhancing Canadians' fundamental and transferable skills, enabling them to secure and maintain employment more effectively.
On behalf of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Quebec Lieutenant announced an investment of nearly $5.6 million in La Factry. This funding comes through the Skills for Success Program and will aid in executing the Canada Créatif project. This initiative targets Francophone newcomers to Canada, focusing on essential skills like creativity, innovation, problem solving, and communication, and equipping them with the adaptability needed for the jobs of the future.
In this endeavor, La Factry will collaborate with Francophone minority community organizations nationwide, involving institutions from Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba. The project will provide diverse levels of training through online and in-person modules to newcomers, whether they're already in the country or yet to arrive. The training is open to 375 individuals aged 18 to 35, forming part of the government's wider commitment to creating 500,000 new training and work opportunities.
This investment aligns with Canada's immediate and long-term training needs, prioritizing under-represented groups in the job market, including newcomers. The Skills for Success Program, launched in May 2021, promotes nine essential skills required to thrive in learning, work, and life situations. These skills encompass fundamental abilities, like writing, reading, and numeracy, as well as socio-emotional skills necessary for successful social interaction, including communication, problem-solving, creativity, and innovation.
The Skills for Success Program was announced as part of the 2021 Budget, with the Canadian government committing to invest $298 million over three years. The program aims to aid Canadians across all skill levels in enhancing their basic and transferable skills to prepare for, secure, and thrive in employment.
As it stands, about 45% of Canadians lack literacy, numeracy, and digital skills vital for success in the knowledge economy. Research suggests that a 1% rise in average literacy rates could correlate to a GDP increase of up to 3% and a productivity surge of up to 5%. Investments focusing on women and individuals with lower literacy levels could stimulate significant growth.
News Source: Employment and Social Development Canada
