MLA Report: Empowering Alberta’s youth with dual-credit opportunities

By Justin Wright on April 17, 2024.

The future is looking brighter than ever for Alberta’s high school students. The provincial government has announced a significant $4.45-million investment into dual-credit grants for the 2024-25 school year. This funding will allow school authorities across the province to create new or enhance existing dual-credit programming.

Dual-credit courses are a fantastic way for students in Grade 10-12 to get a head start on their future careers. These innovative programs enable youth to earn both high school credits and credits towards post-secondary certificates, diplomas or degrees – all while still in high school. Talk about a step ahead!

By exposing students to hands-on career training earlier, dual credits open up a world of possibilities. From skilled trades like electrician, welder and automotive tech apprenticeships, to health care, criminal justice, agriculture and so much more – motivated students can sample potential career paths before finishing high school.

The impact is two-fold. First, it improves high school completion rates by keeping students engaged through relevant, experiential learning directly linked to their interests and goals. Second, it helps build a strong, qualified workforce with advanced technical skills to drive Alberta’s economic growth. It’s a win-win for students and the province.

Alberta’s government understands that preparing youth for emerging opportunities in our diversifying economy is pivotal. That’s why they are going even further by investing an additional $450,000 annually for three years specifically for healthcare aide dual-credit grants. The health care field faces increasing demand, so nurturing a pipeline of passionate, trained professionals is essential.

With more than 50 school authorities partnering with post-secondary institutions to offer dual credits last year alone, this funding will empower even more districts to get on board. From power engineering to veterinary studies, baking to horticulture – the diversity of dual credit options allows every student to explore their calling.

As a former dual enrolment student shared, “Taking dual-credit courses showed me the real-world applications of what I was learning. It got me excited about my future career and motivated me to work hard to get there.” That’s the power of experiential learning in action.

Alberta is setting up its next generation for success by investing in their passion projects today. Dual credits are gamechangers, and this funding commitment will open doors to boundless opportunities. The future is bright and filled with possibility for Alberta’s youth.

Justin Wright is the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

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