Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am excited to announce that today the Government of the Northwest Territories is releasing the Aurora College Transformation Implementation Plan and the initial areas of teaching and research specialization for the polytechnic university. These foundational documents, along with input from our residents and partners, will help guide the transformation of Aurora College into a polytechnic university and beyond over the next six years. Later today, I will table the implementation plan, which identifies the critical milestones along the path towards the establishment of an effective and sustainable polytechnic university capable of supporting the aspirations of Northerners, diversifying the economy, and contributing to the long-term prosperity of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Speaker, maintaining a high level of transparency and accountability is critical to the success of this project, which is why today we are launching a new "Aurora College Transformation" website. This website enables residents to learn about the transformation, follow the progress being made through various dashboards and tracking tools, and provide feedback. Mr. Speaker, in August, we sought feedback on a discussion paper about the areas of teaching and research specialization for the new polytechnic university. Feedback from Indigenous government partners, business, industry, post-secondary institutions, non-government organizations, and members of the public has informed these four initial areas of specialization, which are:

• skilled trades and technology;
• earth resources and environmental management;
• northern health, education and community services; and
• business and leadership.

These areas of specialization are not programs or classes. They are broad, overarching themes that will provide the structure and focus required to maintain high-quality programming and operations.

Mr. Speaker, the polytechnic university will be focused on learners, meeting them where they are in their education journey and supporting them through a laddered approach as they work to achieve their own education and career goals. There will be a place for every NWT resident at the polytechnic university through access to adult basic education, upgrading, certificate, diploma, and degree programs. It will give them improved and expanded access to quality post-secondary education opportunities close to home, as well as the confidence and experience to move on to additional degree and advanced degree programs.

None of this can be achieved without also increasing the availability of programming in our small communities. Through a new and innovative approach to community learning, the polytechnic university will have a clear and meaningful presence in every community in the Northwest Territories. From our smallest communities to our regional centres, new made-in-the-North programs and research initiatives will increase access to education and research opportunities through a network of learning centres, remote research facilities, and campuses.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank all those who have been supporting the work of the transformation, including those who have taken the time to help shape the path forward through engagements. This transformation is one of the most promising ways we are preparing the Northwest Territories and our residents for future prosperity. As the institution emerges from transformation, it will be stronger and more accessible, able to attract a greater number of students from within the NWT and beyond, and provide lasting economic benefits to the territory and our people. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.