More post-secondary options could be coming to the West Shore.
The province announced Tuesday morning it will provide $250,000 to Royal Roads University, on behalf of the three public post-secondary institutions in Greater Victoria, to develop a report based on need for potential program delivery options in Langford.
“We’ve been looking at ways to advance the delivery of post-secondary education and training to programs in the West Shore for a number of years,” said Langford Mayor Stew Young in a statement. “It makes a lot of sense to give students pursuing a post-secondary education the opportunity to do that in the community they live in.”
Last year the West Shore had an estimated population of roughly 74,000 while Sooke had about 14,000, according to a release from the province. The City of Langford’s annual average population growth during the past 10 years has been nearly five per cent, making it one of the fastest growing regions in the province.
“Giving our students the ability to transition to post-secondary education or training, while continuing to live in their home community, is a great option,” said Jim Cambridge, School District 62 superintendent, in the same release. “Students can stay in a familiar place where they are comfortable, can continue working locally and, potentially, save money by living at home.”
Melanie Mark, minister of advanced education, skills and training, added “I’m excited that we’re engaging with community partners to improve access to post-secondary education and training. As the first person who ever graduated from high school in my family, and who went on to college and university, I know the power of education. I know how transformative it is and how impactful it can be on our communities.”
Community partners include residents, the Sooke School District, West Shore municipalities, Royal Roads University, Camosun College, the University of Victoria, local First Nations and the ministry will be involved in the planning process.
