Each individual jobseeker could receive up to £28K towards career development
The government of Ontario has announced a new initiative where it will cover training costs of up to $28,000 for individuals who want to learn in-demand skills so they can be matched with hiring employers.
In its newest training programme Better Jobs Ontario, the government said it will pay up to $28,000 in tuition and other costs for short programmes spanning 52 weeks or less that will give jobseekers the skills needed by employers.
It will cover the following costs such as:
- tuition
- books
- other instructional costs, including student fees, supplies and electronic devices
- transportation
- basic living allowance (up to $500 per week)
Additional funding may be availed for:
- childcare
- disability-related supports
- living away from home
- Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) and/or language training
"Whether you are a young person struggling to break into the job market, a gig worker hustling to make ends meet, or unemployed and on social assistance, our government is here to give you a hand up to building a better life and stronger province for us all," said Labour Minister Monte McNaughton in a statement.
The initiative's goal is to help individuals re-join the workforce quickly, which is why it is only focusing on training programmes shorter than 52 weeks.
Read more: Ontario invests $5.5 million into workplace health, safety research
"If you want to attend training longer than one year, you can apply to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) for a mix of grants and loans to help you pay for your postsecondary education," the government said in its announcement.
Fleming College President Maureen Adamson said in a statement that the project expands "job training and education to those who need it the most."
"This funding opens doors for underemployed workers, new students and anyone looking to pursue a new career that requires a specific skillset," said Adamson in a statement.
Meanwhile, the government also announced that it is updating its Employment Ontario services in York, Halton, and Stratford-Bruce Peninsula to help unemployed and underemployed people find meaningful careers.
The efforts are part of the government's steps in attracting, supporting, and protecting workers across the province.
