Province and Assiniboine partnering to offer free workplace skill course to newcomers

With the support of a $129,000 investment from the Province of Manitoba, Assiniboine College is introducing a free English for Occupational Skills & Employment Success (EOSES) part-time course over the coming academic year. The course is designed for eligible newcomers to build confidence and competencies to succeed in the Manitoba labour market.

The EOSES course is designed for some temporary residents and other newcomers to build the English
language, digital literacy and workplace communication skills required for successful employment and
integration in the workplace. Students in the program will also gain a deeper understanding of Canadian
intercultural practices and workplace expectations.

“By investing in programs like this, our government is helping newcomers build the skills and confidence they
need to succeed in Manitoba’s workforce,” said Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration. “This
initiative will provide valuable support to the ongoing investments we’re making to empower newcomers and
strengthen our provincial economy.”

The program is free and designed to fit alongside students’ other commitments, with approximately eight
hours of study per week over 12 weeks. The college will deliver the course both online and in-person in
Brandon, maximizing access to the course across Manitoba. The first intakes are in September, with one
cohort delivered online and another in-person in Brandon. Two more intakes will start in January, again with
both online and in-person options. A total of 80 spots will be available across all the intakes, with 20 students
in each group.

Demand for the course is expected to be high, particularly across western Manitoba, where many newcomers
are seeking opportunities to build skills and transition into new or different employment or progress in the
workplace.

“Many newcomers arrive with strong education and experience but face challenges navigating the Canadian
workplace,” said Karen O’Gilvie, Director of the Centre for Adult Learning at Assiniboine College. “Through this
course, we are helping learners develop confidence in their communication and a better understanding of
workplace culture and language, to build the skills that are essential for long-term success.”

The course is open to individuals aged 18 and older who have a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark
level of 5. It is available to temporary residents holding valid work or study permits, as well as Canadian
citizens who identify as newcomers. Permanent residents may express their interest, although priority for
available seats will be given to temporary residents and newcomers. Those on temporary visitor visas are not
eligible.

Anyone interested in learning more about the program including eligibility, and to indicate their interest to
enroll can visit assiniboine.net/EOS