April 24, 2007 - 5:23am
Malaspina University-College President Dr. Ralph Nilson is excited about recommendations contained in a newly released government report that could transform Malaspina into a regional university.
Former BC attorney general Geoff Plant, special advisor to the government on Campus 2020, released a 91-page report Monday that Nilson calls “an important document that could reshape the future of BC’s post-secondary system.”
“The recommendations in the Plant report are extremely supportive to our region’s needs, and the needs of individuals and specific communities we serve,” Nilson said. “We are excited about the prospect of working with government officials, politicians and other institutions to finalize and implement the recommendations once they are approved by cabinet.”
Recommendation #35 in Plant’s report is of particular importance to Malaspina, said Nilson. It calls for clarification of the mandate of BC’s regional network of post-secondary institutions by repealing the statutory designation of “university college,” creating statutory designations of “regional university,” and creating three new regional universities, including Malaspina University.
Plant’s recommendation of legislation reinforcing the mandate of regional universities as “teaching-intensive, regional learning institutions” is inclusive of preparatory, trades and applied programs.
“We fully support regional university status for Malaspina with a strong emphasis on teaching and learning,” said Nilson. “In fact, Malaspina is recognized regionally, nationally and internationally as a leader in undergraduate teaching, learning and applied research. With formalized status as a regional university, we will be better positioned to build on this and meet future needs for growth and development of our changing communities.”
The Plant report also recommends creation of four new provincial Learning Councils, including one for Vancouver Island, designed to facilitate the efficient and effective distribution of regional learning opportunities.
Nilson is currently in Japan building relationships with other universities. He returns to Nanaimo Friday, and looks forward to reviewing the Plant report in detail with the Malaspina Board at its meeting in Powell River. Internal review and discussions will also commence next week on campus. Nilson added that Malaspina will engage in further consultations with local MLAs, Ministry of Advanced Education officials, and other institutions.
Dr. Nilson will be available for further comment next week. In the meantime, please direct enquiries to the President’s office at (250) 740-6564 for referral to Acting President, Dr. David Thomas.
The complete 114-page Campus 2020: Thinking Ahead report is posted at www.campus2020.ca
Tags: In the Community
