Alberta invests $8M in micro-credentials for job-ready upskilling
Posted Sep 25, 2022 2:43 pm.
Alberta is investing nearly $8 million over the next couple of years to fund micro-credential programs to accelerate the growth of skills and career development.
Our investment in micro-credential programs will give Albertans more flexible learning opportunities to develop the skills they need to build new careers. These short-term courses help develop job-ready skills and complement traditional credentials: https://t.co/4Eeg46k8I4 pic.twitter.com/ScpTqgZ5ML
— Alberta Government (@YourAlberta) September 22, 2022
Microcredentials are short-term programs that rapidly re-skill or upskill unemployed and underemployed individuals and help to adapt and transition them into the job market, according to a provincial release.
Another goal is to make individuals obtaining micro-credential more viable candidates for when they re-enter the workforce and need to pivot in their careers.
“Micro-credentials empower Albertans to develop the job-ready skills they need to be successful and build new careers while ensuring employers have access to the talent they need to grow their business. I’m thrilled we’re able to expand this program in a meaningful way that supports our students, post-secondary institutions, employers, and industry to secure Alberta’s future.” Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education
The province says the investment will be used to develop 69 micro-credential programs at 21 post-secondary institutions across Alberta.
“Micro-credentials help move Albertans through the shortest, most accessible route between learning and work. NorQuest has consulted extensively with industry partners to establish a streamlined micro-credential framework. This investment by the Government of Alberta ensures we have the resources to connect learner and industry demand to the future of work in our province and beyond,” said Carolyn Campbell, president, and CEO, NorQuest College.
Specific priority areas that will receive funds include: technology and innovation ($2,399,070), health ($1,874,001), finance and fintech ($603,250), construction and manufacturing ($924,150), aviation ($512,050), agriculture and forestry ($298,050), veterinary medicine and the software engineering sectors.
A full list of allotted funding to post-secondary institutions is available on the Government of Alberta website.
