The University of Lethbridge Students' Union is lending its support to a new youth employment program from the Alberta Government. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

U of L Students’ Union supports new youth hiring funds

Sep 15, 2025 | 12:00 AM

New funding from the Alberta Government is being supported by the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU).

Starting in October 2025, the Alberta Youth Employment Initiative will inject $8 million to help hire up to 2,500 Albertans aged 15-24.

As many as 1,000 employers will receive grants ranging from $4,000 to $7,500 to subsidize $10 per hour in wages for younger workers.

ULSU Vice President Bradley Pike says they have long advocated for investments that connect students to meaningful work opportunities.

“With the ongoing cost of living crisis impacting students across Canada, The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive helps reduce financial barriers for employers, and in turn, makes it easier for students to secure stable employment in their field of study,” says Pike.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

He continues, “Our executive team has been diligently working on this advocacy since our terms started in May 2025, and we’re thrilled to see this investment at a time of need for our students.”

The unemployment rate in the Lethbridge-Medicine Hat region was 7.3 per cent in August 2025, increasing from 5.9 per cent the month prior.

Provincially, 17 per cent of youth were unemployed, a stark difference from the 8.4 per cent rate for the general workforce.

The ULSU says this program also aligns with its broader advocacy goals, including increasing investment in student employment supports, expanding opportunities for students across Alberta, and ensuring the local businesses benefit from the skills and talents of young workers.

READ MORE: Lethbridge-Medicine Hat unemployment rate increases to 7.3%