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St. John's (MUN.ca) -- With a labour shortage looming in Newfoundland, Memorial University is bringing together employers and community partners to explore the largely untapped resource of Memorial’s international students and graduates, simultaneously sorting truth from rumour in the hiring process.

“Most international students are available for employment both during and after their studies,” said Sonja Knutson, director, Memorial’s International Centre. “Many employers don’t realize that hiring international students is easier than taking on regular foreign workers. Memorial facilitates their work permits and paperwork, whatever is required. All the employer has to do is confirm that they do in fact have a valid work permit.”

More than 150 employers, students and government representatives will gather at the Clovelly Golf Club in St. John’s on Thursday, March 22, from 8-10 a.m. to discuss the processes, advantages and benefits of hiring international students and graduates.

The breakfast event will include a panel discussion with Ms. Knutson; Pam Toope, director of labour market development with the Department of Advanced Education and Skills; and Kamrul Islam, policy and program development specialist with the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

As well, a group of international students will be available to speak with various employers to discuss employment-related topics.

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