The Marois government recently announced an investment of $24 million in vocational training. In doing so, it hopes to nurture and expand many of the existing programs already in place across the province as well as develop a new curriculum essential for Centre-du-Québec region.
Announced by the Ministry of Education, Recreation and Sports on Sept. 23, the $24.3 million investment addresses Quebec’s needs in the vocational education system.
“Vocational and technical training is an essential asset for the development of skills in Quebec,” says Minister Marie Malavoy.
“A strong and prosperous Quebec relies on men and women that were given every opportunity and support needed to get a degree or qualification.”
The money will notably be used in the creation of 10 new educational programs, which the government has already authorized. These new licenses will require investments of $15.65 million across Quebec, funding earmarked for local development and the acquisition of equipment.
Furthermore, over $8.3 million is designed for the arrival of a new curriculum: Heavy Vehicle Transport Mechanics. The investment will be used to meet the training program’s equipment and facility needs, which will be taking place in Drummonville. The first cohort of students is set to start as soon as March 2014.
This new study program helps to address the shortage of transport industry workers in the Centre-du-Québec region.
“I believe these graduates will be an essential workforce for the transport of goods [in the region],” states Yves-François Blanchet, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Wildlife and Parks.
In addition, a sum of $260,000 will allow school boards offering training in Concrete Finishing, House Painting, and Pharmacy Technical Assistance to review their facilities and adapt them as needed.