YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES | January 11, 2019
The Town of Fort Smith, the Town of Inuvik and the City of Yellowknife recognize the shared interest in strong post-secondary opportunities for our residents, our communities and all northerners. Together, as the three communities currently hosting Aurora College campuses, we urge the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) to establish a clear vision for post-secondary education – specifically a polytechnic university - in the Northwest Territories (NWT).
A strong knowledge economy benefits the entire NWT. Without a university presence in the NWT we face enormous lost opportunities to advance the academic, social and economic advantages for all northerners, as well as the ability to attract academics and students from elsewhere who would benefit from the opportunities for learning and research in the NWT. We believe that no decision should be made that would be a detriment to any NWT community.
We are united in seeking to advance a post-secondary education framework with a governance model that reflects academic best practices and is arms-length from government. This framework must incorporate a range of interests while providing a collaborative path forward. At this time, we look forward to seeing the implementation plan, with key milestones, that will advance this transformation of post-secondary education. The GNWT has our support to do so and we look forward to contributing to this important work in 2019 and beyond.
Mayor Napier-Buckley stated “The Town of Fort Smith is committed to supporting the growth of Aurora College as a degree-granting polytechnic institution. Building a shared vision of post-secondary education based on engagement and consultation with communities, students, and families across the territory is the next critical step. Prioritizing a quality, accessible education that builds on our community learning centres, campus communities, research centres, and headquarters is attainable and sustainable, and we are excited to continue being partners in this growth.”
Mayor Rebecca Alty stated “Modern, relevant post-secondary opportunities in the NWT that can inspire social, economic and educational development in our communities and across the NWT is a win for all Northerners, and Yellowknife looks forward to working with the GNWT and other communities to advance this meaningfully.”
Mayor Natasha Kulikowski stated “By investing in the current strengths and continued successes of the Aurora Campus and Aurora Research Institute here in Inuvik, the new polytechnic university would enhance the education, research and development opportunities available while ensuring the residents of Inuvik, the Beaufort Delta Region and the NWT can remain among the innovators. “
For more information:
Stephanie Vandeputte, Communications & Economic Development Officer
City of Yellowknife
communications@yellowknife.ca
867.920.5600
Natasha Kulikowski, Mayor of Inuvik
nkulikowski@inuvik.ca
867.777.8600
Lynn Napier-Buckley, Mayor of Fort Smith
mayor.napier-buckley@fortsmith.ca
867.872.8400
