North York General (NYG) and Seneca Polytechnic have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening Ontario’s healthcare system by closing talent gaps and preparing for future needs. The agreement, announced on April 28, 2026, deepens collaboration between the two organizations with a shared commitment to building a robust healthcare talent pipeline.
Expanding Work-Integrated Learning and Recruitment
Under the MOU, NYG and Seneca will explore opportunities to expand Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) experiences for Seneca students. This includes strengthening recruitment pathways to support NYG’s workforce needs. The framework will advance healthcare concepts focused on innovative care models and clinical placements at NYG for students in nursing and other health discipline programs.
“North York General has been an important partner to Seneca for many years, and this new MOU will take that relationship to the next level,” said David Agnew, President of Seneca Polytechnic. “By working together, we are opening new pathways for students to learn in real health-care settings, gain practical experience alongside industry professionals, and graduate ready to contribute to their communities.”
Addressing Healthcare System Pressures
Dr. Everton Gooden, President and CEO of North York General, emphasized the importance of preparing for the future: “Being here for life means being ready for what’s next. We are at an incredibly important moment in health care. As AI and technology reshape how care is delivered, and as system pressures continue to mount, we need partners like Seneca Polytechnic to help us respond to today’s needs and anticipate tomorrow’s.” He added that the partnership builds on the expertise of NYG’s workforce to develop talent that will make a meaningful difference in the communities served.
Mental Health Counselling Partnership
The expanded collaboration has already begun with a new counselling partnership funded by the Province of Ontario. This initiative supports students experiencing complex mental health and addiction-related concerns. The counselling partnership aims to strengthen continuity of care, reduce barriers to accessing specialized supports, and enhance coordination between NYG and Seneca services.
“Ontario is strengthening our dynamic health-care workforce that delivers life-saving care when people need it most,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Our government commends this innovative partnership between Seneca Polytechnic and North York General which will equip more students with the hands-on, practical skills they need to deliver world-class care and protect Ontario’s talented pipeline of healthcare workers for generations to come.”
Future Collaborations
Additional areas to be explored within the MOU include engaging NYG staff and physicians as guest lecturers in Seneca’s program advisory committees. The organizations will also pursue practice-based research initiatives that bring together NYG team members with Seneca students and faculty, fostering innovation in healthcare delivery.
