VIU receives funding to continue innovative upgrading program

The Pathways program helps students gain the pre-requisites they need to get into high-demand careers.

More people are now able to acquire new or upgraded post-secondary skills or knowledge in English, math and science to meet their career goals through Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways at public post-secondary institutions, including Vancouver Island University (VIU).

“Too often, people wanting to improve their work opportunities experience barriers that restrict their ability to prepare for the meaningful career and life they want in BC,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “This government is increasing access to learning and upgrading supports, in addition to initiatives in our Future Ready Action Plan, helping British Columbians reach their fullest potential and meet the labour force demands of today and tomorrow.”

For the second year in a row, the BC government is funding the Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways, with $3.8 million to provide students the pre-requisites for the post-secondary programs they need to meet their career goals. There is no tuition for ABE and ESL courses.

The Pathways programming is intended to support people in getting the pre-requisites they need to access high-priority programs, including in the areas of health care, early childhood education, skilled trades and technology. This is in addition to the variety of tuition-free Adult Basic Education and English language learning programming available throughout the province.

VIU will receive $1 million to support students seeking training in several high-demand areas:

• Trades programs
• Early childhood education programs
• Health programs
• Technology programs

“VIU’s Pathways program includes learning pods where students build relationships with each other and receive individual education plans and curriculum that is developed in conjunction with faculty that is relevant to their career goals,” said Dr. Deborah Saucier, VIU President and Vice-Chancellor. “For newcomers to Canada, Pathways also embeds language supports and cultural competencies. This funding will help VIU ensure students build the connections and sense of belonging they need to be successful and help build healthy communities across BC.”

Read the full release on the BC Government News website. To learn more about the program, visit the VIU Pathways website.