Manitoba is modernizing the post-secondary education system to better meet student needs and respond to labour market demands with a new Post-Secondary Education Strategy, which contains system-wide innovations and new partnerships to expand and enhance learning options. This announcement was made by Premier Greg Selinger.
“We want to help young Manitobans find rewarding careers, so as we continue to expand the post-secondary education system, we are working with universities and colleges in a culture of collaboration to make advanced education opportunities more accessible, and ensure that education as a whole is more responsive to the needs of our communities and the good job opportunities here at home,” said Premier Selinger.
The premier noted the goals of the strategy include:
- raising the Aboriginal post secondary education participation to the provincial average;
- transitioning supports for all high school students;
- a “pathways approach,” including multiple routes to advanced education credentials;
- leadership in teaching innovation, research and student experience;
- building an integrated, collaborative education system.
“A strong post-secondary education system that responds to the needs of students is essential for the province. We’re hopeful this strategy will improve the student experience in Manitoba, and respond to the many pathways that students take toward education and meaningful employment,” said Michael Barkman, chair, Canadian Federation of Students Manitoba.
The premier noted the new strategy has been developed in consultation with an advisory committee made up of education and community leaders. He added it will support the province’s new Youth Jobs Strategy set out in Budget 2015 by creating new opportunities for learning that link to the emerging needs of the province’s workforce.
“A skilled and talented workforce continues to be reported by communities and business leaders as a major factor in supporting prosperity and growth. Post-secondary education is therefore fundamental to the future prosperity and vitality of our communities and the province,” said Dr. Gervan Fearon, president and vice-chancellor, Brandon University. “We believe this is a value shared by all Manitobans and at Brandon University our faculty and staff are working hard in support excellence in teaching and learning, as well as research and innovation, for the benefit of the students and communities we serve.”
“New ways of thinking about post-secondary education are needed to achieve our future goals. To develop the skills and talents our province’s economy needs, students require more flexible learning options, a more seamless transition from high school to post-secondary programs, and more opportunities at all stages to gain work experience,” said the premier.
The new strategy builds on the expansion of Manitoba’s post-secondary education system over the past 15 years. The premier noted this period has seen a 43 per cent increase in enrolment province-wide, more than $1 billion invested in campus upgrades and the creation of more than 400 new academic programs.
The premier noted that as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to keep post-secondary education affordable, starting in August, Manitoba student loans will be interest free.
