Mr. Speaker, we have great opportunities in the Northwest Territories. As our economy expands, there is a growing demand for skilled employees with post-secondary education. In the public sector, there is a high demand for health care and teaching professionals. There is a broad range of needs in the private sector, particularly in the oil and gas and diamond industries. Across all sectors, we need people who are qualified in the trades, with technical and professional skills and with information technology skills.
If northerners are going to take advantage of these job opportunities, they will need to pursue post-secondary education. The good news is that many NWT residents are attending college and university programs, through Aurora College and also at universities and colleges in the south. There are currently 1,474 NWT students accessing the Student Financial Assistance Program. With their new skills, they will be ready to pursue the job possibilities available here at home.
Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremonies at Thebacha Campus of Aurora College in Fort Smith. I had a chance to meet with the graduates who are about to enter our workforce, with the benefit of their new knowledge. In the weeks to come, more students will graduate from the campuses in Inuvik and Yellowknife. As well, many northern students will be completing their diplomas and degrees at other institutions.
Mr. Speaker, it takes hard work, long hours and perseverance to make it to graduation. I invite all Members of this House to join with me in offering congratulations to all the northern graduates and to their families who gave them support them along the way. Thank you.
--Applause