The Disconnect Between Students and Employers: A Growing Trend in Newfoundland and Labrador
A puzzling situation is unfolding in Newfoundland and Labrador’s job market: students report difficulty finding employment, while businesses struggle to find and keep workers. Recent reports indicate a disconnect between the skills and expectations of young job seekers and the needs of the local business community. This isn’t a new issue, but the gap appears to be widening, prompting calls for collaborative solutions.
The Student Perspective: A Frustrating Search
Many Memorial University (MUN) students are facing a challenging job search. Some report applying for numerous positions without receiving any responses. One student shared with VOCM News that a three-month job hunt yielded no results. Another described submitting “thousands of applications” both within and outside the province, receiving very few callbacks and even being told directly that employers weren’t prioritizing local hires.
Businesses Speak Out: The Ongoing Labour Crunch
However, the narrative from the business side paints a different picture. The St. John’s Board of Trade reports that its members are still grappling with a significant labour shortage. CEO AnnMarie Boudreau stated that many businesses are “finding it challenging to recruit and retain workers,” impacting both growth and daily operations. This suggests a mismatch between the skills students possess and the skills employers require.
Factors Contributing to the Divide
Several factors likely contribute to this disconnect. A drop in international student enrolment at MUN, as reported in December 2024, has impacted the overall labour pool. The university has faced scrutiny regarding its facilities management, with an auditor general’s report in January 2025 giving it a “failing grade.” While not directly linked to employment, concerns about the university’s infrastructure could influence student perceptions of local opportunities.
The Role of Deferred Maintenance and Future Investment
A new $70-million deferred maintenance program at MUN, announced in February 2026, aims to address infrastructure issues. This investment, funded by provincial debt relief on the Core Science Building, will focus on renovations to the tunnel system and demolition of Coughlan College. Rayna Luther, MUN’s associate vice president of facilities, believes students will “see and feel” the benefits of this program. While primarily focused on infrastructure, improved facilities could indirectly enhance the university’s appeal to potential employers and students alike.
Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Efforts
The St. John’s Board of Trade is actively working with government, educational institutions and industry stakeholders to “find practical solutions” to attract, train, and retain talent. This collaborative approach is crucial. The Canadian Federation of Students local chair has also welcomed the $70 million investment in MUN maintenance, but emphasizes the need for continued support from both provincial and federal governments to keep education affordable while supporting the university.
Looking Ahead: Potential Trends
Several trends could shape the future of this situation:
- Increased Focus on Skills-Based Hiring: Employers may shift towards prioritizing skills and competencies over traditional degrees, potentially opening doors for students with alternative qualifications.
- Expansion of Apprenticeship Programs: Greater investment in apprenticeship programs could provide students with practical, hands-on experience that aligns with employer needs.
- Enhanced Career Counselling Services: MUN and other educational institutions could strengthen their career counselling services to better prepare students for the job market.
- Government Incentives for Local Hiring: The provincial government could explore incentives to encourage businesses to hire local graduates.
Did you know? Memorial University receives over 70% of its operating revenue directly from the province – among the highest percentages in the country.
FAQ
- What is deferred maintenance? Deferred maintenance refers to delayed repairs and renovations to infrastructure.
- What is the St. John’s Board of Trade doing to address the labour shortage? The Board of Trade is collaborating with government, educational institutions, and industry to find solutions.
- Is the provincial government providing financial support to MUN? Yes, the province allocated $400 million to MUN in the last budget.
Pro Tip: Students can increase their employability by gaining relevant function experience through internships, co-op programs, and volunteer opportunities.
We encourage readers to share their experiences with the local job market in the comments below. Explore our other articles on Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy for further insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
