Ontario is investing $5.2 million in three programs at York University so that highly skilled newcomers can get licensed and find jobs in their fields faster.

Ontario's bridge training programs have proven successful in helping newcomers bridge their international credentials to Ontario qualifications so they can work in their fields. 

Since 2003, over 180 bridge training projects have provided 30,000 newcomers with a range of support including skills assessment, technical training, local work experience, language training, and mentorships.

This funding is part of the government's plan to strengthen the economy by investing in the skills and knowledge of Ontarians.

Investments have been made in the following projects:

 

Nursing

The project will increase success rates for internationally educated nurses on the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination by providing test taking, cognitive and anxiety reducing/confidence building strategies. This model may translate to other Canadian nursing and international healthcare programs that require exam success for licensure.

Business, Finance and Administration

The project will help internationally educated professionals in business, finance and administration obtain certification and employment by providing training courses in Ontario business culture, ethics, law, taxation and math.  Occupation-specific language training, Canadian work experience and mentorship are also offered.

 

Information Technology

This project will provide training to address the gaps of internationally educated information technology (IT) professionals so they can obtain employment in their field or a related field quickly and integrate into the Canadian IT sector.  The course will focus on necessary technical upgrading, occupation-specific language training, cross-cultural competencies and mentorship.