National Co-operative Education Week kicks off today, March 20, and Nova Scotia is joining the celebration by highlighting the benefits of co-op.Co-op education programs alternate academic study with work placements, giving students an opportunity to apply and develop their skills outside the classroom. Having real-world work experience gives them a competitive edge after they graduate. “Co-op makes good sense. It gives students the chance to gain hands-on experience, make connections with employers, and get a foot in the door while they’re still in school,” said Kelly Regan, Minister responsible for Youth. “We also know that co-op graduates are more likely to be employed full-time, land jobs that are related to their studies, and earn more three years after graduation.”Employers benefit, too. Students bring fresh, new talents and ideas to the workplace. Nova Scotia offers a financial incentive to private-sector, government-funded, and not-for-profit organizations that offer co-op placements for university and college students. The Co-Op Education Incentive reimburses employers $7.50 an hour (up to 40 hours a week) toward a student’s wages. Additional funds are available for some research-focused employers. The next round of applications for the incentive opens April 10. Employers interested in hiring a student for the fall 2017 term can visit novascotia.ca/programs/co-op-education-incentive/ to learn more. National Co-Operative Education Week is an initiative of the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education. To learn more about co-op education, visit www.cafce.ca.Source: Release