PRINCE GEORGE – Today four post-secondary institutions in Northern B.C., in partnership with the Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology, reaffirmed their commitment of working together to provide access to high quality education in support of a growing economy that will help advance people’s opportunities to live and prosper in the region.
All four presidents and ministry officials gathered at the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George this afternoon to sign the terms of reference and strategic framework allowing for a third five-year term of this collaborative arrangement between these institutions in Northern B.C.
The Northern Post-Secondary Council was first established in 2003 with a partnership that supports collaboration between institutions in the north, while also acknowledging the specific needs of the region.
Today marks a further expansion of this partnership between colleges and the University of Northern British Columbia to work in partnership for the benefit of the programs, industry relations and the people of the region seeking advancement through a high-quality post-secondary education.
A new five-year agreement means the four institutions — University of Northern British Columbia, College of New Caledonia, Northwest Community College and Northern Lights College – will continue to strengthen program offerings through the development of comprehensive learning opportunities for northern students in ways that are collaborative, innovative, distinct and complementary to existing initiatives in order to maximize resources in support of systemic effectiveness.
It also supports the BC Jobs Plan commitment to enhance access to advanced education while seeking to support much needed skills for a growing workforce in the region.
Quotes:
Laurie Rancourt, President, Northern Lights College
“We look forward to our ongoing Northern collaboration as we continue to address the ever increasing skills and training needs across Northeastern and Northern B.C. By working together in this way we are able to combine our strengths to the benefit of the region as a whole, and in the process we effectively improve our long term capacity to meet local needs with local solutions.”
George Iwama, President of the University of Northern British Columbia
“We are very pleased to renew our commitment to work together for the benefit of all Northerners. We will collaborate to maximize effectiveness and efficiency in supporting the success of industries in our region. We will train and educate our students to meet the growing need for their talents, skills and intellect. We wish to sustain vibrant northern communities for the benefit of all British Columbians.”
John Bowman, President, College of New Caledonia
“There are unique challenges and opportunities that exist in northern B.C. that can only be fully appreciated by post-secondary institutions from the area. The NPSC provides a strong, united voice to ensure the needs of students in the north are being met.”
Denise Henning, President, Northwest Community College
“We have challenges in the North that are specific to the region. This partnership has been valuable for all participants as it helps us turn those challenges into opportunities. The more we collaborate, the better we can serve the region. I like to call it Northern solutions to Northern issues.”