Ottawa graduates taking part in spring convocation ceremonies as unemployment rates rise

Graduates from Algonquin College’s School of Business and Hospitality are set to enter an uncertain job market. CTV’s Natalie van Rooy reports.

Thousands of graduates are taking part in spring convocation ceremonies this week, but they are entering a tough job market. The youth unemployment rate continues to rise but students in one sector may have more luck than others.

Beaming and proud, hundreds of graduates crossed the stage to get their diploma during spring convocation.

“They get that sense of joy and satisfaction that they’ve completed their program,” said Cory Haskins, Algonquin College School of Business and Hospitality Dean. “Their faculty, their family, and their friends are all here to support them in this amazing time.”

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Armed with diplomas and certificates, the group from the Algonquin School of Business and Hospitality are ready to tackle the job market.

Tourism continues to boom in Canada, in 2023, the industry generated $124 billion in tourism revenue, up 18.5 per cent from 2019.

“Many of the students who go through our hospitality programs, specifically in the culinary baking side, already have jobs that they’ve been doing throughout their time with a part-time employment and are leaving and going into full-time positions right now,” Haskins said.

But not every graduate is as lucky. There are challenges in the youth job market. The unemployment rate for people between the ages of 15 and 24 grew to 14.2 per cent in May.

“I will be doing an internship in project procurement analysis,” said Eunice Doumbe. “I’m hopeful to you further my career in the field.”

Loved ones are here to support those hoping to start a new career.

“My words of advice is always look ahead. Be positive. Everything you’ve done is worth it and well deserved,” said Matthew Chandran, who was attending the convocation. “Don’t ever think of the negatives because that’s all in the past so just keep looking forward.”

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