Future of work

Youth in Canada were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic across various metrics, including health, social inclusion, education and workforce integration. Educational disruptions because of school closures led to widening learning gaps and employment gaps due to lockdowns, cancelled work-integrated learning programming and other changes.  

At the federal level, Canada has taken steps to improve outlooks for youth who face challenges in bridging education and meaningful work. The 2021 budget recovery plan pledged to support the creation of 215,000 new work-integrated learning opportunities and higher quality jobs for youth. The road to recovery has still been uneven, with marginalized youth — including those not in education, employment or training (NEET) — facing compounded challenges.  

To adequately support youth in post-pandemic recovery strategies and mitigate long-term negative effects (career scarring), all levels of government must coordinate their efforts. Ensuring that young Canadians are equipped with targeted, relevant skills development tools to make up for potential learning loss and employment disruption is essential.  

Experts recommend a comprehensive strategy to:  

• Expand employment services (career counselling and job search assistance) to reduce the risk of un- and under-employment among youth 
• Enhance labour market flexibility and labour mobility to match skills with the first job and reduce job mismatching  
• Encourage participation in and support for opportunities in education, learning and skills development, and address barriers to participation for non-student youth