Youth unemployment has become a prominent issue that is impacting people ages 15-24 in Canada. More employers expect youth to work for free — as unpaid interns — with no assurance of employment thereafter. 

The lack of real job opportunities and experience that youth have is driving youth unemployment and will leave enduring repercussions.

The lack of jobs is the main roadblock that causes youth unemployment. Where are youth to look for job opportunities? There should be more than just entry level jobs. More needs to be done than just creating more jobs. Youth need to be given the opportunity to get their foot in the door.

There is a lack of job opportunities for youth. Additionally, youth lack the experience and connections needed to find opportunities. It is difficult for someone to get a job that will give them the experience they need for their field of interest. Some youth have experience, but it is not the type of experience they need to get a job. What youth need are connections. Networking is important and if you know the right people, it can help you find a job. The lack of opportunities for youth will leave long-lasting consequences.

The government doesn’t seem to be attending to the problem that is youth unemployment. More skills training programs should be created and the government should start providing relevant support for struggling youth. A post secondary education used to be seen as the key to a successful life. This isn’t the case anymore. Qualifications for jobs continue to rise. Many entry-level jobs require a degree and at least one year of experience. Having an education isn’t as beneficial as it used to be. How are youth expected to start families and support them? No matter how long youth stay in school, they will continue to be seen as lazy.

Employers want to hire unpaid workers. Internships give youth Beneficial experience, but if they’re unpaid positions they’re pointless. More employers expect youth to work for free with no assurance of employment thereafter.

Youth are unemployed — and the government hasn’t done anything about it. They lack relevant work experience and the opportunities aren’t there. Employers prefer to think youth are too young to hold down a job

When given the opportunity, youth have the potential to be great.