Ontario Helps Newcomers Get "Job Ready"
November 25, 2009 9:30 AM
McGuinty Government Expanding Bridge Training Programs
Ontario is helping eighty skilled newcomers get training in biotechnology that will help them get jobs in their field.
The province is supporting the new Pathways to Employment in Biotechnology bridge training program, based in Mississauga, and offered jointly by the University of Toronto and Astra Zeneca. It is one of 16 projects that will help close to 5,000 newcomers get the training and supports they need to work in their field.
Support for these programs is part of the government's plan to strengthen the economy by investing in the skills and knowledge of Ontarians. The federal government is partially funding some of the programs announced today.
QUICK FACTS
- Since 2003, more than 180 bridge training programs have helped over 30,000 newcomers get the training they need to get a job in their field.
- About 70 per cent of Ontario's adult newcomers have post-secondary education or training.
- The 16 projects announced today will receive more than $20 million in funding from the province. To date the province has invested more than $145 million in bridge training since 2003.
CONTACTS
- Coralie D'Souza
Minister's Office
416-325-6204
coralie.d'souza@ontario.ca
- Michel Payen-Dumont
Communications Branch
416-314-7010
michel.payen-dumont@ontario.ca
ontario.ca/citizenship
"Investments in bridge training for newcomers help Ontario respond to a growing demand for skilled labour and positions our economy to be competitive on a global scale."
– Michael Chan
Minister of Citizenship and Immigration
"Investing in Mississauga's vibrant and diverse community is not only good news for newcomers, but also good for the economy."
– MPP Bob Delaney
Mississauga-Streetsville
"This program demonstrates the pivotal role that universities play in training the next generation of highly-skilled professionals. The University of Toronto Mississauga and the School of Continuing Studies are thrilled to work in partnership with AstraZeneca Canada Inc. on this cutting-edge continuing education program."
– Marilynn Booth
Director, University of Toronto's School of Continuing Studies
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