Aurora College will become a polytechnic university, Education Minister Caroline Cochrane announced in a statement to the legislative asembly on Friday.
"I am pleased to announce that the Government will soon begin the process of transforming Aurora College into a polytechnic university," said Cochrane. "A polytechnic university combines the practical approach of a college education and the depth of study associated with a university program. Polytechnic programs are hands-on and technology-based, providing students with practical training for in-demand jobs.
Cochrane was addressing the house in response to the Aurora College Foundational Review that made 66 recommendations regarding the northern post-secondary institution last May.
"This Review has provided an opportunity to step back and evaluate where we are today and where we need to be in the future. Post-secondary education is essential to the growth and prosperity of our territory, and Aurora College continues to play a critical role in providing residents with options for obtaining that education in the NWT," said Cochrane.
The review made a total of 67 recommendations to improve Aurora College, Cochrane said the GNWT will accept all 67, either fully or partially.
The review has led to heated debates in the territory after the review recommended moving the institutions headquarters From Fort Smith to Yellowknife. Cochrane did not explicitly say if the headquarters would be moving in her address but noted that three campuses would remain, the third campus is currently located in Inuvik.
"An overarching priority of the transformation will also be to maintain a strong institution with three vibrant campuses, each with quality programs that are sustainable and that use, and build on, the assets of the communities where they are located," said Cochrane without specifying where the campuses would be located.
Cochrane said she would be tabling the government's full response to the recommendations Friday afternoon.&
Cochrane's full statement can be read
