A Glimpse into Education & Training

Canada’s education sector plays a large role in shaping Canada’s future. From elementary schools to community-based learning to colleges and universities, it teaches and trains our workforce. The sector also employs millions of workers nation-wide.

Though it is strong in many ways, the sector is not immune to challenges. High rates of employee burnout and staff shortages create a risk to the quality of education and training delivery. These challenges are made worse by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, poor funding, skills mismatches, high rates of retirement, and a lack of teaching graduates.

The sector is also working to innovate. More accessible programs, new ways to learn, and other new training methods are being introduced. For example:

• Several community-based programs are emerging in Niagara, increasing access for learners and forging new relationships with employers.
  
• Niagara Falls University will open in January 2024 and offer training in emerging technologies.
  
• Starting in 2024, all high school students will complete a new credit called the Technological Education credit. The new course will include hands-on learning experiences and technical skill development intended to create new pathways to jobs in STEM and the skilled trades.

Our education system is at a turning point. However, without addressing its internal workforce challenges, staffing shortages and burnout may continue to prevent the sector from moving forward. New programs and policy changes are needed to help the education sector.

Learn more in our latest brief, A Glimpse into our Education and Training Sector.