Today, the Government of Saskatchewan announced annual funding of $24.2 million to the eight regional colleges in the province for skills training programs.
The funding allows the Colleges to deliver a variety of education and skills training programs including Adult Basic Education (ABE), both off and on-reserve, Essential Skills for the Workplace (ESWP), as well as the Skills Training Allocation. ABE and ESWP programs provide adult learners with basic employment skills and workplace experience that leads to either further training or attachment to the labour market.
The Skills Training Allocation provides access to accredited training programs that meet the labour market needs of employers across various sectors of the provincial economy. Funding is also provided to support the delivery of language training programs.
“The Government of Saskatchewan has been working with our industries to deliver real training opportunities that make sense for our labour market and those careers in demand,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “We want to see more people actively engaged in the workforce, which benefits individuals, families, and communities right across our province. The programs our regional colleges will deliver with this funding, from basic skills programs to language training, will support individuals as they pursue further education and move into employment opportunities in Saskatchewan.”
Parkland College is among area colleges receiving funds. It will receive $2.8 million.
“This is wonderful news for Parkland College, given the operational pressures resulting from the pandemic and the fiscal pressures on the Government of Saskatchewan,” Parkland College President and CEO Mark Hoddenbagh said. “We thank the government for this funding which supports our adult learners as they further their education and enhance their employability skills.”
Cumberland College will receive $2.4 million
“Cumberland College is very grateful to the Government of Saskatchewan for providing this level of funding in a challenging fiscal environment,” said Hoddenbagh, also Cumberland College President and CEO. “Dealing with the pandemic has had a large impact on our operations and this annual funding is enabling us to maintain continuity in our programming for adult learners who are seeking to attain Grade 12 equivalency and further develop their employability skills.”
Carlton Trail College will receive $1.9 million.
“Ongoing training and education is critical in today’s market to increase one’s employability and skills,” Carlton Trail College President and CEO Shelley Romanyszyn-Cross said. “This funding will help Carlton Trail College continue its commitment to reskill and upskill future workers to meet Saskatchewan’s evolving labour market demands.”
Southeast College will receive $2.7 million.
“We are very pleased with the funding announcement that allows Southeast College to continue offering these vital programs to our students,” Southeast College President and CEO Patrick Stoddart said. “Continued funding such as this allows for us to prepare and carry out multiyear plans that benefit both students and labour markets in southeast Saskatchewan.”
