Report recommends reducing university enrolments and increasing focus on colleges, polytechnics

In order to best serve students and the Canadian economy, university enrolment should be cut by 30% and more focus should be directed towards colleges and polytechnics, writes Ken Coates in a report commissioned by the Canadian Council for Chief Executives (CCCE). Career ready: Towards a national strategy for the mobilization of Canadian potential looks at the imbalances in Canada’s education system, determining that the status quo is not benefitting Canadians. Coates says short-term thinking by schools and policy-makers combined with a bias against “blue-collar” work is to blame for the current situation. Coates makes several recommendations to move Canada’s workforce forward, including improved career information and advice, re-prioritization of applied learning for many students, promoting enrolment in high-demand, career-ready programs, establishing competency frameworks for a range of sectors and occupations, and encouraging entrepreneurship. CBC | Full Report