 OCC Calls for Emphasis on
Lifelong Learning and Job-Based Training
 The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) released a report, “Protecting Our Most Valuable Resource: The Business Case for Lifelong Learning and Job-Based Training” on June 24th, 2011 which outlines the impact of knowledge on innovation and the economy, and calls for expanded government support for a broad-based workforce training system. A 2010 OCC Employer Survey found over three-quarters of Ontario employers link workforce training to increased quality of output, improved service, and increased staff morale and motivation.
“Businesses across Ontario understand how knowledgeable workers support innovation and economic prosperity,” said Len Crispino, OCC President & CEO. “Unfortunately, the current workforce training system has a number of gaps that limit its ability to produce a highly skilled workforce.”
One of these gaps is the lack of private sector involvement in the design of workforce training, which results in program development that overlooks the needs of business. Rapidly evolving technology and ongoing business development require workers to have a diverse skill set. Private sector involvement and support for ongoing workforce training programs is critical to ensuring people are keeping up with the demands of an ever-changing workplace and have appropriate job-based skills.
“Dynamic and diversified economies require training programs to be aligned with emerging sectors and regional economic development strategies,” said Crispino. “We need to strengthen the link between education deliverers and the private sector to equip Ontario’s workforce with valuable, in-demand skills.”
The Protecting Our Most Valuable Resource report offers recommendations to the Ontario government that focus on the funding and infrastructure of the current training system.
The report, and its recommendations, can be read by clicking here.
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