A new program is being launched to recruit new grads and young workers to the Nova Scotia public service.
Premier Stephen McNeil announced Friday the Experience Through Opportunity program will advertise more than 70 public service positions across the province that require limited or no experience.
For each of the next five years, government will recruit young workers to make up five per cent of new government hires, creating about 250 jobs.
NSCC student Chelsea Kruck says she understands the challenges young people face when trying to find local work.
“When I started trying to get a job for like the company I work for now, it does say at least six months experience,” said Kruck.
McNeil says when they started to look at some of the postings, they felt some jobs didn't require having experience that someone could step right in and get to work.
Ashley Hosier with the Environment Department says it’s important for her to stay in Nova Scotia to be close to her family.
She says she’s excited about her work the province’s Environment Department, and thinks the program will give hope to others.
“A lot of people come here and fall in love with the area and want to stay, so it’s kind of exciting that there might be some opportunity for them to either stay or for them to make their home in Nova Scotia.,” said Hosier.
The Nova Scotia public service is one of the largest employers in the province. McNeil says they need to lead by example, and believes the will is there in the private sector, as well.
Nova Scotia business owner Saeed El-Darahali says he was left frustrated with employers always looking for two to five years of experience when he was starting out.
“I decided at a young age that if I ever started a company one day I will do my best to hire youth,” said El-Darahali.
He now has 45 employees – more than half are youth.
“Our company has actually grown to over 175 countries and if it wasn't for the youth and the new graduates, the fresh ideas that we've gained we wouldn't be where we're at today,” said El-Darahali.
McNeil says there will also be more co-op opportunities in the public sector for university and high school students by next year.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Jacqueline Foster.
