À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ

Work-Learn Institute research shows increase in students’ teamwork and critical thinking after taking part in the program. WE Accelerate aims to help vulnerable first work-term co-op students build skills to enhance employment for subsequent work terms – and according to research, it has achieved that goal.

In a CACEE blog post, Jessica Lang, associate director of Undergraduate Career Services at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, explores how the Employability Capital Growth Model (ECGM) can enhance career programming and partnerships. The model identifies nine areas of employability capital and emphasizes the importance of embracing equity, diversity and inclusion in career development. The University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ aligns with the ECGM through its inclusive advising, reflective practices and strong work-integrated learning partnerships to support students’ holistic growth. The result is a more personalized, equitable approach to helping students build confidence and navigate their career paths.

Work-integrated learning (WIL) has a significant contribution to education. Not only does it deepen academic understanding, but also enhances employability outcomes, fostering the exchange of knowledge between students and workplaces. Implementing the ideal environment for WIL consists of understanding stakeholders' goals and needs, creating a supportive environment, as well as navigating diverging interests. Dr. Norah McRae, associate provost of CEE, discusses with the National Skills Network, the distinction between experiential education and practical work experience, and how WIL plays a role in contributing to the broader educational framework.

In a conversation with National Skills Network, Dr. Norah McRae, associate provost of Co-operative and Experiential Education at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, highlights the transformative impact of work-integrated learning (WIL) as a global solution for bridging academic theory with real-world application. Dr. McRae emphasizes WIL’s role in enhancing employability, fostering innovation and creating reciprocal value between students and employers. Drawing on Canadian and international frameworks, she shares strategies for building inclusive, high-quality WIL ecosystems.

In an HRD Talk episode, host Emily Douglas sits down with Judene Pretti, director of the Work-Learn Institute, and co-op student Maanasa Rajaguru, third-year Faculty of Arts co-op student, from the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ to explore how employers can more effectively engage Gen Z talent. The conversation highlights Gen Z’s desire for meaningful work and a strong sense of belonging. Pretti and Rajaguru emphasize that young workers thrive when they’re treated as valued team members whose contributions align with broader organizational goals. To connect with the next generation, organizations must foster cultures centred on growth, continuous learning and purpose.

This Giving Tuesday, we share short vignettes of the large impact a small donation can have on the lives of co-op students.

From co-op student to employer, to alumni, to parent, to support – Ruhuni de Alwis and family connection to À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ runs deep

University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ's Co-operative and Experiential Education shortlisted for a QS Reimagine Education award.

À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ’s strengths in work-integrated learning and innovation set the foundation for new programming that brings generations together to solve problems for social good.