Ontario colleges applaud government

Colleges Ontario
News Release

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Ontario colleges are applauding the McGuinty government's announcement today of an additional $65 million for college education and training.

"The government clearly recognizes that college graduates play an essential role in the success of our province," said Barbara Taylor, the president of Canadore College and chair of the colleges' committee of presidents. "We are pleased to be partnering with the McGuinty government to equip students with high-quality education and training."

The funding will help colleges acquire state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, to ensure students are effectively prepared for today's high-tech workplace.

Higher education is becoming a necessity for many people in today's economy. In fact, more than 90 per cent of the net new jobs created from 1997 to 2006 went to people with postsecondary education. For many people, that means acquiring college credentials.

College education and training is particularly important at this time, as the province manages economic challenges.

Colleges play an important part in retraining workers who have been laid off. The colleges will also play an important part in helping Ontario address the approaching skills shortage, as the baby boomers retire. Even with strong immigration levels, it is estimated Ontario will be short more than 360,000 skilled employees by 2025.

"The need for college graduates has never been greater," Taylor said. "We will continue to work with the McGuinty government to help more people fulfill their potential through a college education."

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