The government and Memorial University came together Wednesday to unveil new incentives for international students to stay and work in this province after they graduate.

Three new programs will focus on preparing new grads for everything from the interview process to on-the-job training. But the centrepiece is the extension of MCP coverage three months beyond graduation, in line with the federal study permit.

Immigration, Population Growth and Skills Minister Gerry Byrne spoke to the importance of the initiatives.

He says it should result in better retention numbers as the students study, graduate, seek work, and eventually stay in the province.

Byrne noted the extended MCP coverage for students and their families will hopefully fill the gap until they find full-time employment.