The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills:

Post-Secondary Transition Scholarship Supports Adult Learners

I rise today in this Honourable House to offer congratulations to the 50 men and women on their selection as Successful Post-Secondary Transition Scholarship Award winners. Mr. Speaker, all of these individuals are adult learners beginning full-time programs at a university or college, and each will receive $2,000 for a total investment of $100,000, funded by the Provincial and Federal Governments through the Labour Market Agreement.

These scholarships are awarded to graduates of the province’s upgrading programs such as Adult Basic Education. Our government recognizes the importance of education in providing a foundation for prosperity, innovation and growth. Along with recognition of academic excellence, these scholarships celebrate the commitment of the winners to further their education and training.

Mr. Speaker, since 2004, more than $48 million in new funding has been allocated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to help adult learners. As we train people for the challenging and rewarding opportunities on the horizon, this government’s commitment to post-secondary education is also clear. In fact, our investments on that front have increased dramatically since our government came into office less than nine years ago.

Mr. Speaker, in 2003-04, we invested $246.1 million in post-secondary education. In Budget 2012, that figure was $548.1 million – an increase of 122.7 per cent. With internationally recognized post-secondary education – combined with a rapidly growing economy leading the country across many sectors – this is an unprecedented time of opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador.

This province leads the country in affordable education and growing employment opportunities. With a labour demand forecast of up to 70,000 job openings within the next 10 years, investments continue our ongoing efforts to ensure today’s opportunities are used to secure a future of growth and prosperity.

Our most valuable resource will always be our people, Mr. Speaker, and our government is proud to support initiatives that encourage their success. On behalf of this Honourable House, I congratulate the scholarship winners – more than 70 per cent of whom are women – and wish them all the best in their continuing education.

Thank you.

2012 05 16                                   2:20 p.m.