Thank you, Madam Speaker. People in the Northwest Territories often raise concerns about Arctic College and its programs. The college and this government, however, have a commitment to developing and delivering quality programs and continues to improve services to its clients. The quality of Arctic College programs and its leadership has been recognized by southern Canadians, and the college has received numerous awards in these areas.
Madam Speaker, as Minister and on behalf of Cabinet, I want to advise the people of the north and this Assembly, of national recognition recently given to Arctic College by the Association of Canadian Community Colleges. The association is made up of about 160 member institutions. Its awards program showcases the achievements of individuals and institutions by recognizing innovation, excellence and leadership in Canada's system of colleges and technical institutes.
Each year the association presents four national awards. This year, Arctic College received two of these awards in the categories of program excellence and leadership. The program excellence award was given to Arctic College for its adult basic education program. The award recognizes the quality and innovation of this program which meets learner needs through a unique territorial-wide style of delivery. This program was developed with extensive involvement of college instructors, adult educators and program development staff. It includes a comprehensive set of multi-level courses in mathematics, science, social studies, English, aboriginal languages and personal life management.
All college campuses and community learning centres use these courses in upgrading programs. Almost 40 per cent of Arctic College's full-time students are enrolled in adult basic education courses. Standard course objectives, placement and marking practices ensure students have a firm foundation for employment or further training.
High enrolments in adult basic education courses indicate the need for this program in the Northwest Territories. The program excellence award demonstrates that the college's program is seen as a model for Canada.
The second award has been presented to an individual. The Association of Canadian Community Colleges has awarded its 1994 leadership award to Arctic College president Mr. Mark Cleveland. This award is given to an individual "who goes beyond assigned responsibilities to create, improve or transform the working environment, someone who creates a vision and persuades others to work with them to make that vision a reality." This definition wholeheartedly describes Mr. Cleveland's attitude and commitment to Arctic College.
Madam Speaker, Arctic College has developed at a tremendous rate over the past decade. It has changed from a small localized training institution to a comprehensive community college system with more than 40 delivery locations. This change has increased participation and success in adult and post-secondary education. More northerners then ever before can now access educational training, which will prepare them for the social and economic challenges ahead.
The awards I am announcing today bestow prestigious national recognition on the Arctic College board's innovations and the quality of its programs and leadership.
In closing, Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate Mr. Cleveland on his personal leadership award and I would like to congratulate the Arctic College board of governors and staff as well as all those who work in partnership with the college for their contributions towards the 1994 association of Canadian community colleges program excellence award. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
---Applause