Keyano College welcomed Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education to campus.
Demetrios Nicolaides stopped over at the college on Nov. 14, 2019.
Keyano was his last stop on his province-tour of post-secondary institutions, and first since his appointment to the Ministry.
Nicolaides said it was a pleasure to visit the school.
“It helped to give me a stronger perspective on what makes Keyano unique and how they are delivering high-quality education to residents of Northeastern Alberta.”
Nicolaides took questions from students, staff, and guests during the morning’s question and answer session at Keyano Theatre.
At least 550 people attended the event.
He also joined students at a facilitated sharing circle in the Recital Theatre later that afternoon.
Keyano College President and CEO, Dr Trent Keough said he and the Minister appreciated the level of engagement during the day’s proceedings.
“We were fortunate to have had the opportunity to host an open and honest dialogue with the Minister and provide him with an understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges that we face.”
Budget impact
Released in October, the 2019 Provincial Budget planned to cut the advanced education budget by 12 per cent by 2023.
Moreover, Keyano would face a $744,000 or 2.2 per cent reduction in its Campus Alberta Grant for 2019-20.
Despite this, the college announced there would be no staff reductions or impacts on student services this fiscal year
They added the cuts fall within Keyano’s budgeted forecasts.
However, the Budget also eliminated the freeze on post-secondary tuition rates.
Therefore, Keyano College’s Board of Governors shall discuss a potential increase for 2020-21.
Nicolaides said Keyano College plays an important role in the business and economic community.
“Its programs and strong industry partnerships are key to the economic vitality of Fort McMurray, neighbouring regions and the province of Alberta.”
Nicolaides also toured Keyano’s modern facilities.
This included stops at the Oilsands Power and Process Engineering Laboratory and the Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre.
