��������

EDMONTON – The Government of Alberta says if passed its upcoming 2024 budget will invest $24 million over three years to create 3,200 new apprenticeship seats.

The seats would be created across 11 post-secondary institutions across Alberta and the new investment would bring total funding through the Apprenticeship Learning Grant for the 2024-25 academic year to $78 million.

“When students join the skilled trades, they are entering well-paying jobs and starting a bright future in our province. Investing in apprenticeship education will supply Albertans with in-demand skills, nurture homegrown talent and support our labour market with world-class skilled tradespeople who keep our economy moving,” Alberta Minister of Advanced Education Rajan Sawhney said in a statement.

The Apprenticeship Learning Grant provides supplemental funding to support the delivery of apprenticeship classroom seats and is intended to address demand throughout the academic year. In 2023-24, the government provided $54 million to 11 public post-secondary institutions through the grant, the release said.

“Budget 2024 demonstrates our commitment to supporting Alberta’s economic growth by addressing the demand for skilled workers. This strategic investment not only aligns with our economic diversification goals but also ensures that our workforce remains competitive, contributing to the long-term prosperity of our province,” added Minister of Finance Nate Horner.