Help keep paid internships available to students.
The continuation of funding for remote student internships is incredibly important. At the height of the pandemic, the Canadian government provided funding to create paid remote internship opportunities to help students gain on-the-job skills and networking opportunities to ensure they’re prepared for work after graduation. Programs known as Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiatives (I-WIL) were created to help bridge the gap at a time when the ‘normal’ student internship experiences were unavailable, and have helped tens of thousands of students since.
While the pandemic may be behind us, the need for that crucial work experience still remains. But programs like these are at a crossroads, and they need our collective voices to help keep them going. The government funding for I-WIL is up for renewal, and we have the power to influence this decision.
Here’s why you should care:
- Growth: Over 115,000 students have dived into applied learning, connecting with over 33,000 companies since these programs were launched.
- Equity: With innovative training and equitable access to work opportunities, everyone can become empowered to find gainful, meaningful employment.
- Empowerment: These programs are about breaking the cycle of “can’t get a job without experience, can’t get experience without a job.” They’re about creating a world where underemployment is a thing of the past.
How You Can Make a Difference:
- Write an Email: Send a message to your Member of Parliament (MP). Tell them why it matters to you and to the future of students across Canada. Not sure what to say? No worries, we’ve got a template to get you started.
- Spread the Word: Share your support on social media, with friends, and within your networks. The more voices, the merrier and mightier.
Remember, every email counts. Your voice is powerful, and together, we can ensure Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiatives continue to pave the way for students’ growth, learning, and empowerment.
Still have questions? Check out the Learn Better Work Better site to learn more.