The provincial government has announced a combined $6.2 million in funding for Canadore College and Nipissing University in North Bay. Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli said in a news release Thursday the money will boost efforts to prepare college and university students for in-demand jobs. Canadore is receiving $3,237,123 to renovate its machine shop, refurbish its elevator, modernize the aviation simulation lab and upgrade equipment in the medical laboratory technologist program, the post-production and graphic design production programs. Nipissing will receive $3,014,407 to upgrade classroom infrastructure, repair the HVAC systems, upgrade automation systems, and to obtain portable motion capture equipment paired with cutting-edge technology -- including artificial intelligence and data analytics -- to enhance experiential learning for students in health-related areas. “For our nursing students and others who are able to use our simulation lab,” Kevin Wamsley, Nipissing University president and vice-chancellor, told CTV News. “So we’re very appreciative of that technical support that allows us to deliver high-quality academic programs.” Modern laboratories “This funding supports the development of state-of-the-art learning environments across a wide range of programs,” Canadore president George Burton said in the news release. “Modern laboratories, classrooms, and equipment strengthen Canadore’s ability to prepare a highly skilled workforce that contributes to Ontario’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.” “As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this $6.2 million investment will strengthen the pipeline of highly skilled workers by ensuring students at Canadore College and Nipissing University have access to the latest equipment to gain experience our employers need to keep the province competitive,” Fedeli said in the release. The money is part of a $242 million plan to upgrade classrooms and equipment at publicly funded colleges and universities across the province. “Institutions can use the funding for major building systems upgrades, heating and ventilating system upgrades, as well as mechanical and electrical system upgrades,” the release said. “The funds can also be used to buy educational tools, such as modernized computers and software for teaching purposes, specialized equipment, or machinery for use in labs, shops and classrooms. As a shared responsibility, part of the capital infrastructure program requires colleges and universities to make matching contributions.”
