Backgrounder


Investing In People, Strengthening The Economy

August 20, 2008

The Ontario government is investing in the skills and knowledge of Ontarians and helping to train today's workers for tomorrow's jobs through its $1.5-billion Skills to Jobs Action Plan.

As part of this plan, over three years, the government will invest $970 million to build and improve places where students learn. The funding will support new construction and renovation projects, as well as the purchase of new equipment. These projects will create construction jobs in the short-term and help students develop the skills they need to work in high-demand skilled trades in the future.

Mohawk College will receive $9.2 million to build a Truck and Coach Centre, renovate skilled trades classrooms and purchase new equipment at its Stoney Creek campus.

The expansion means the college will be able to welcome more than 500 more students and apprentices.

Investing In Students

Investing in the skills and knowledge of Ontarians is a cornerstone of the government's plan to strengthen the economy. Together with its partners in education, the government is working to ensure students have the support and the tools they need to succeed.

New postsecondary and training investments in the 2008 Budget include:

  • $560 million over three years to expand and improve training and apprenticeship programs across the province
  • $465 million over three years to provide more support for students, including $385 million for Textbook and Technology grants and $27 million for Distance Grants to help students in remote areas with travel costs
  • $200 million in 2007-08 to maintain and upgrade university facilities

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