The Atlantic ministers of education and training met today in Corner Brook, NL to identify common priority areas to engage the federal government in pursuing a long-term plan for education and training that will support and enhance Atlantic Canada’s prosperity.
The ministers of education and training plan to meet with Atlantic Canadian Members of Parliament of the Liberal Party, the Conservative Party, and the New Democratic Party in February to initiate a dialogue on learning needs of Atlantic Canadians. During these meetings, ministers of education and training will outline the major issues facing Atlantic education systems and explore ways in which both levels of government might cooperate for the benefit of all Atlantic Canadians. Ministers recognize that the first steps in these discussions are to establish common priorities and develop a shared approach to meeting the needs of Atlantic Canadians in education and training.
Atlantic ministers of education and training believe that there are new opportunities to enhance the level of cooperation in public and post-secondary education and training. In post-secondary education, improving university and community college infrastructure and building a strong research capacity remain a priority for ministers of education and training. They intend to convey to their federal colleagues that post-secondary education institutions have a uniquely important role to play in transforming the region’s economy through innovation. Ministers will investigate how they can work with the federal government to meet these challenges.
Ministers will also raise training and skills development with the federal government. Given that both levels of government exercise responsibility in this area, close cooperation is sought to enhance skills, productivity and mobility in the workplace. Ministers believe that governments need to continuously support the workforce to upgrade their skills to remain competitive.
Atlantic ministers of education and training look forward to entering into a dialogue with the federal government to address education and learning needs of Atlantic Canada. A constructive, responsive and cooperative model for federal-provincial collaboration can lead to joint investments and build the region’s education capacity.