More Career-Related Co-op Jobs for Students

More Nova Scotia students will gain career-related job experience because government has expanded the number of co-op placements available across the province.

One-hundred additional positions have been added for a total of 425 this year. Job listings are now available at campus co-op offices.

Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Michel Samson said today, April 24, that student employment programs benefit everyone.

"Employers recognize the talent, energy and new ideas that students bring to the table," said Mr. Samson. "Students find work to help pay for their education, and gain valuable experience that will help them get a good job when they graduate."

Government invested $500,000 more in the Strategic Co-operative Education Incentive program, for a total of $2.3 million. This will help private-sector, government-funded and non-profit employers hire students for fall and winter work terms.

"My experience helped me rediscover my passion for computer science, and gave me something to be proud of," said co-op student Thomas Eaton. "There's no substitute for the incredible mentorship that comes from the program, and I would tell other students, if they take a co-op placement, they will be rewarded many times over."

Mr. Eaton completed three placements under the co-op program with T4G Limited in its Halifax office.

"Our involvement with co-op programs has been great, both for us and for our students," said T4G executive vice-president Tricia MacLeod. "Students bring energy and fresh ideas to our offices and employees, and in turn, they learn from mentors and get to see the results of their work implemented in our customer projects."

Employers interested in hiring co-op students for the fall and winter terms can apply until May 23. More information and applications are available at http://novascotia.ca/econ/sep .

In total, 1,200 career-related summer jobs and co-op placements will be available to university and community college students this year.

In the coming months, government will announce details of a new Graduate to Opportunity program. The goal is to encourage more employers to help young people start and continue their careers here at home.