Mohawk College Layoffs Highlight Challenges in Canada’s Shifting Job Market & Immigration Policies

​In December 2024, Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario, initiated a significant layoff plan, cutting approximately 20% of its administrative workforce. This decision was primarily driven by a notable decrease in international student enrollment, a critical revenue source for many Canadian post-secondary institutions. ​

The reduction in international students is part of a broader national trend, influenced by the Canadian government's decision to lower immigration numbers to alleviate pressures on housing and social services. In October 2024, Canada announced plans to admit 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, down from 485,000 in 2024. The layoffs at Mohawk College underscore the challenges faced by educational institutions amid these demographic changes. A decline in international students not only impacts tuition revenue but also affects local economies and the diversity of the educational environment. This situation highlights the need for colleges and universities to adapt to evolving enrollment patterns and financial constraints.​

These developments occur against a backdrop of a fluctuating Canadian job market. As of January 2025, the national unemployment rate stood at 6.6%, reflecting a slight decrease over the previous two months but remaining higher than the 6.1% rate from a year earlier. Employment gains were observed in sectors such as manufacturing, professional services, and construction, while other areas experienced job losses.

The situation at Mohawk College illustrates the interconnectedness of immigration policies, educational institutions, and the labor market in Canada. As the country adjusts its immigration strategies, stakeholders must consider the broader economic and social implications to ensure sustainable growth and stability.​

Have you been laid off by Mohawk College Canada? Contact our employment lawyers today. Our legal team offers a free consultation and works on a contingency basis—there are no fees unless you win your case.

Justin Chandler’s original article, “Hamilton's Mohawk College cut 127 jobs in layoffs this week” was published in CBC News on January 25, 2025. Read the Full CBC News story.