This means their qualifications are recognized in every province and territory in Canada. Another 46 northerners have been certified in designated occupations. I expect those receiving certification will be an important part of our territory's future.
In the coming year, the department will continue to support the Schools North Apprenticeship Program and to develop new high school courses to better prepare students for trades and other skilled occupations. A revised building Trades Helper Program will provide youth with exposure to construction trades in order to move into apprenticeship or to work as skilled labour on jobsites. We will also be introducing Ready to Work North, a job readiness program that provides essential employability skills for those entering the workforce. Mr. Speaker, these programs, along with the Deal Yourself In marketing campaign launched in the fall, demonstrates the ongoing commitment to support the trades and occupations in the Northwest Territories.
As well, we will continue to support innovative community-based activities that give students hands-on experience with the trades. For example, in several communities, students build small houses for elders with materials provided by the NWT Housing Corporation and with training from the college and schools.
The Department of Education, Culture and Employment will continue to work closely with the Apprenticeship, Trades and Occupational Certificate Board, Aurora College, and industry to work on new initiatives to meet labour market and skills training demands.
I hope everyone will join me in the Great Hall on Thursday, February 9th at 11:30 to celebrate the success of our apprentices and occupational candidates from across the Northwest Territories and to thank our partners in business and industry. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause