Student retention and work-study balance: a solution to the labour shortage

The Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal and Montreal Hooked on School, in partnership with the Regroupement des cégeps de Montréal, are proud to present this study on work-study balance in an era of labour shortage.

It is through education that workers distinguish themselves on the job market and contribute to the development and vibrancy of society. At a time when companies are maintaining strong economic growth but are facing an increasing labour shortage, stagnation and an increased dropout rate are very real risks. This study hopes to be a valuable and comprehensive resource that will feed the necessary collective dialogue around this topic.

The study:

• presents an overview of student retention and success in both Montréal and Quebec;
• discusses labour market prospects, calculates the costs of school dropouts and demonstrates, in numbers, that work-study balance is a recipe for success;
• presents twelve courses of action likely to promote work-study balance and encourage student retention, grouped under five targets:
• the private sector (businesses and the business community),
• schools and the education network,
• the community,
• governments,
• Quebec society.

This study was carried out by the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal and Montreal Hooked on School, in partnership with the Regroupement des cégeps de Montréal.