BC Colleges Applauds Federal Government's Commitment to College Education in Canada
March 14, 2011, Victoria, BC | BC Colleges applauds the Federal Government for the recognition and funding provided to colleges in today’s budget. This funding will contribute to and support the critical role colleges play in training and educating the highly skilled workers required to power Canada’s economy.
“Our key priority this year is collaboration. Collaboration with Government, industry, businesses, communities and of course, collaboration amongst the 11 public colleges in British Columbia and other institutions across Canada. The fact that the Government has earmarked $80,000,000 to accelerate the adoption of information and communications technologies by small and medium-sized enterprises through collaborative projects with colleges means we’re all working to achieve the same goal.” states Jim Reed, President of BC Colleges.
The Federal budget also provides an initial $3,000,000 and an ongoing $5,000,000 to support 30 new Industrial Research Chairs at colleges thus recognizing the key role colleges play in research and innovation. This combined with $60,000,000 over the next three years to promote increased student enrolment in key disciplines related to the digital economy will ensure college graduates are ready to participate fully in the knowledge-based economy.
“This budget also complements Premier Clark’s provincial focus on families and job creation. With more than 70 campuses throughout British Columbia colleges are uniquely positioned to support students and families. The additional Federal funding will allow more institutions to educate and train people in their home communities in turn strengthening every region in the Province. This is a positive budget for colleges in Canada and BC,” adds Reed.
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BC Colleges is a consortium representing the Province’s 11 public colleges, serving almost 200,000 students annually with campuses in close to 70 communities throughout British Columbia. Our colleges offer a comprehensive range of programs from university studies and baccalaureate degrees to career, technical and trades education. All programs are designed to be accessible, affordable and responsive to the evolving needs of BC communities and industry.
Contact:
Jim Reed, President of BC Colleges – 250-595-4866
Alix Cameron, Red CAB Communications – 604-839-2770
Cindy Ball, Red CAB Communications – 604-828-8050