A joint technology program to be delivered by Hamilton, Ont.-based McMaster University and Mohawk College is set to receive $16.5 million in funding from the Ontario government. The funding will go towards construction of new classroom and lab facilities, and aims to meet demand in the tech sector for highly skilled workers.
Under the partnership, Mohawk technology students will be eligible to apply their diploma toward a bachelor degree from McMaster, according to a released statement. The program will also assist internationally-trained professionals with finding jobs in Ontario.
"These students are going to help Ontario stay ahead of the competition," said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. "We're investing in their skills and knowledge so we can continue to attract jobs and investment for our economy."
The program would also help with meeting job demand, as according to the Conference Board of Canada, the tech sector in Canada may require up to 58,000 workers a year.
"This investment will create exciting new career paths for students and will provide the country's industry with a highly skilled workforce in possession of a unique set of skills," said Peter Smith, acting dean of McMaster's Faculty of Engineering.
The Bachelor of Technology program will start accepting students in fall of 2008 and is offered in three education streams:
- a four-year university degree leading to both a Diploma in Technology from Mohawk College and a Bachelor of Technology degree from McMaster University
- a university degree completion for graduates of the Mohawk College three-year Diploma in Technology or graduates of similar programs at other Colleges
- a Technology Leadership Certificate/Diploma for technologists and internationally credentialed professionals leading to either a certificate or diploma
The funding is part of the government's ReNew Ontario multi-year $30 billion infrastructure investment strategy. For more information visit:
http://www.pir.gov.on.ca/english/infrastructure/renew.htm
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