Diversity of the Future: Dr. Akolisa Ufodike on Building a Productive, Innovative Workforce
As Canada grapples with a decline in productivity, the federal government’s 2024 budget set its sights on innovation and job creation. Budget 2024, titled Increasing Productivity and Boosting Innovation to Create More Good Jobs, outlines five strategic pillars: incentives for entrepreneurs, financial backing for productivity-enhancing tools, regulatory reforms, stronger research support, and a $200 million investment in the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative. While these initiatives support business growth, they fall short of directly empowering workers—the true engines of productivity.
Dr. Akolisa Ufodike, associate professor at York University and former Alberta deputy minister of trade and immigration, offers a sharp perspective on how diversity and inclusion can bridge this gap. With over three decades of experience in finance and public policy, he brings a well-rounded view of how diverse talent fuels economic advancement.
In a recent conversation with SOC News, Dr. Ufodike emphasized that despite welcoming one million immigrants in 2023, Canada hasn’t seen a proportional rise in output—highlighting systemic barriers. He points to the underemployment of skilled immigrants as a key issue. “Too many professionals with advanced degrees are working in jobs far below their qualifications,” he explained, recalling his own early struggles as a newcomer. “This misalignment not only wastes talent but reflects structural issues in how we recognize and integrate diverse skills.”
On the role of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Dr. Ufodike stressed the need for organizations to focus on the people behind the productivity metrics. “When employees feel valued, they’re more engaged and invested in outcomes. Pay equity, career development, and recognition go a long way in boosting motivation and collaboration.”
He urged businesses to look beyond compliance and embrace EDI as a core driver of performance. “Understanding resistance to EDI through frameworks like PESTS helps debunk myths and reshape workplace culture,” he added. According to him, setting measurable goals—such as representation and retention benchmarks—makes progress tangible.
Dr. Ufodike underscored leadership’s responsibility in anchoring EDI within organizational values. “It’s not just about policy. Leadership must champion EDI to embed it into the culture,” he noted.
As the global economy becomes increasingly complex, he believes that organizations prioritizing young and diverse talent will be best prepared for future success. “A resilient workforce is a diverse one,” he concluded. “Companies that invest in inclusive growth today are shaping the competitive advantage of tomorrow.”
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Source: Ceoworld.Biz
