A message from Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training

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Dear post-secondary, skills and training community members,

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented an exceptionally challenging time for every person involved in B.C.’s post-secondary, skills and training sector. I know that some of you are being directly affected by this virus or are concerned about friends and family here and around the world. I recognize that many of you are worried about paying your bills, finishing your programs, returning home and being disconnected from your communities. I understand that our daily lives have been turned upside down and want you to know that our government is doing everything we can to fight this pandemic and keep one another safe.

Everything we are doing is about protecting students, faculty and staff while also supporting the shift in delivery of B.C.’s world-class learning and training programs. This is equally true for the post-secondary system, as well as the hundreds of organizations who play a vitally important role in skills training across B.C. This is a uniquely unsettling time, but I want to assure you that your education and training goals will be met.

I want to express my gratitude for the leadership and resilience you have shown as we navigate these trying and uncertain times together. I know that some applied programming, like trades and health, may be more challenging to deliver online and I appreciate your continuous efforts to adjust and find safe ways for everyone to finish their studies.

For apprentices and trades students, I want to assure you that the Industry Training Authority is working hard to address your unique needs by providing creative pathways to support your completion.

For Indigenous teachers and learners, we recognize that you are facing urgent and unique challenges. We remain committed to working with Indigenous communities and institutions to ensure that training and learning is flexible and responsive.

For international students who are not able to return home and be with loved ones, I recognize that you must feel especially isolated. Please know that our government will continue to do our best to support you as much as possible.

For those who are continuing to deliver core services, I applaud all that you are doing to keep students and staff safe and healthy in the midst of an evolving situation. You worked around the clock to quickly transition to online or alternative delivery methods, and I am confident your swift actions helped reduce the risk for the hundreds of thousands of students, faculty and staff in every corner of the province. Whether it is supporting students, providing housing or food services, or keeping the lights on and the buildings clean – you are at the frontline of B.C.’s post-secondary system. Please know that I see you for the heroes that you are.