Nova Scotia Community College Expansion Announced
Thousands of students across the province will soon be taking new and expanded programs in state-of-the-art facilities at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).
A $123-million expansion will bring an additional 2,500 students into NSCC classrooms. The expansion, which includes a new metro campus and major renovations and upgrades to 13 other campuses across the province, was announced in Halifax today, March 28, by Premier John Hamm.
"This is the single, largest investment that government has made," said Premier Hamm, "and the reason is clear. Skilled workers are the key to Nova Scotia's prosperity and the Nova Scotia Community College has a critical role in preparing that job-ready workforce. This expansion will ensure that Nova Scotians are ready for the jobs of the future."
The investment will improve student life and learning at every NSCC campus in the province. The plan calls for a new metro campus on land adjacent to the Nova Scotia Hospital. Design work will begin in 2003-2004 and construction will commence in August 2004. All campuses will see renovations, with major projects in Port Hawkesbury, Kentville, Stellarton and Truro.
Over the next seven years, 2,500 additional students -- an increase of 25 per cent -- will enter the college at its rural and metro campuses.
"NSCC is committed to providing Nova Scotians with the applied skills and technical education they need to avail themselves of the full spectrum of employment opportunities Nova Scotia's economy now offers," said Ray Ivany, president, NSCC. "This investment is the catalyst which will enable the college's continued development, and its expansion across the province.".
Through links with industry, NSCC has modified over 50 per cent of its more than 100 programs in the last five years, to help address the skills shortage in the province. Through expansion, NSCC will continue to build on its successful relationship with industry to improve the effectiveness of programming, and match programs to meet the needs of regional businesses.
"Clearly, Nova Scotia Community College is not just an educational institution -- it is a place where promise, dreams, and hard work combine to help students reach their potential. It is for this reason that college should be celebrated as important and valuable," said Jennifer Barnable, a public relations student, at NSCC, Halifax Campus. "During the year, hands-on, real-world projects helped me to develop the skills I need to launch my career."
"Everyone at NSCC is very excited about what this investment will mean for NSCC programs, students and facilities," said Daurene Lewis, principal, Halifax campuses. "We'll never forget the importance of this day for this province -- it marks a new era in post secondary education. Our ability to contribute to vibrant communities has been enhanced through this announcement, and that is good news for every Nova Scotian."
The expansion planning has been underway for more than two years. A steering committee consulted with students, staff, faculty and communities to collect input and ideas on NSCC's future direction. Following the initial investment of $123 million, NSCC will require an additional $29 million in annual operating costs. Additional information about upgrading and renovations at each campus is expected in the new few weeks.
This investment is part of the province's Skills Nova Scotia initiative which involves training and skills upgrading, from basic literacy to the use of the most sophisticated technologies.