P.E.I. mentorship program aims to retain new grads

Employers can receive 70 per cent wage subsidy

Prince Edward Island is launching a new employment opportunity initiative in an effort to attract and retain its educated graduates, according to Innovation and Advanced Learning Minister Allen Roach.

“Research indicates that graduates are finding it difficult to secure a career in their field of study, and private sector employers are challenged to match qualified candidates with job vacancies,” he said.

“The new Graduate Mentorship Program, which targets individuals with a post-secondary degree or diploma, will provide graduates with a work experience in the private sector related to their education and career aspirations in Prince Edward Island.”

The program will be open to P.E.I. residents who have completed their degree or diploma within the last five years either on- or off-island, whether or not they still reside in the province.

Private sector employers that are willing to provide a mentorship and employment opportunity to a recent graduate will receive a 70 per cent wage subsidy for a period of one year.

“This financial assistance will be an incentive to hire recent graduates and may help prevent the out-migration of our educated young islanders,” said the minister.

“The Graduate Mentorship Program will position the province to effectively link labour market development, post-secondary education and economic development responsibilities in Prince Edward Island.”

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