Northern Polytechnic Proposal

In the Legislative Assembly on November 2nd, 2016. See this topic in context.

Northern Polytechnic Proposal
Members’ Statements

Kieron Testart

Kieron Testart Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, many times in this House I have spoken about the importance of building a knowledge economy. Though we can never abandon our world-class mining and energy industries, we need to ensure that our territory is strong enough to withstand the volatility of commodity prices and downturns in resource markets, and an innovative knowledge economy will provide us with the kind of long-term sustainability for growth, attract new residents and create opportunities for investment that our southern neighbours take for granted.

While often my focus to this point has been to spotlight the great work of Dechinta Bush University that they've been doing for almost seven years now throughout the NWT, today I want to speak about another important issue for our future: a Northern Polytechnic.

Mr. Speaker, a polytechnic is a publicly-funded college or institute of technology that offers a wide range of advanced education credentials, four-year bachelor's degrees, advanced diplomas, certificates, as well as in-class training for apprenticeship programs. Polytechnics provide programs that are skills-intensive and technology-based, taking a hands-on approach with experiential learning opportunities that provides students with practical training for jobs in demand. They can also provide R and D for Canadian businesses because an essential aspect of a polytechnic is creating a close partnership with industry.

Now, Mr. Speaker, during the election one of my major commitments to my now constituents was to promote the creation and implementation of a 10-year strategic plan to grow Aurora College into a full polytechnic. This would give Northerners a chance to learn a range of technical, technological, vocational and professional training. This polytechnic would offer apprenticeships, accredited diplomas and certificates without ever leaving the North; also giving these students and Northerners the opportunity to connect locally with industry and begin their professional careers where they grew up and went to school; at home. This commitment also included calling for the construction of a new campus facility here in Yellowknife with full accommodations for students and modern research facilities and upgraded classrooms. Mr. Speaker, at this time I'd like to request unanimous consent to conclude my statement.

---Unanimous consent granted

Northern Polytechnic Proposal
Members’ Statements

November 1st, 2016

Kieron Testart

Kieron Testart Kam Lake

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you colleagues. Mr. Speaker, we cannot afford for this government to take a short-sighted outlook on how to manage our economy that puts the next generation of Northerners into a future shrouded by uncertainty. It is clear to me the most significant challenge that this government faces is the lack of skilled northern workers and an aging population on the cusp of retirement. Building a true knowledge economy will undoubtedly require a significant investment by this government, but we need to invest today for the jobs of tomorrow. We need real concrete action and world class knowledge facilities to make that future brighter for the next generation and for all others who choose to call the North home. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Northern Polytechnic Proposal
Members’ Statements

The Speaker

The Speaker Jackson Lafferty

Masi. Members' statements. Member for Nahendeh.