The Government of PEI and UPEI celebrate National Co-operative Education Week
The Honourable Allen Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, signed a proclamation today presented by UPEI co-op student Kylie Ford to recognize next week, March 16 to 20, as National Co-operative Education Week. National co-op week is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of Canadian co-operative education students.
'Providing students will real work experience and mentorship is an important part of building the leaders of tomorrow,' said Minister Roach. 'Co-operative education at UPEI is a win-win proposition where students gain valuable experience to prepare them for their careers, and Island businesses and organizations, through investing in co-op education, contribute and gain access to a skilled labour force.'
UPEI will recognize the accomplishments of its co-op students during their work terms at its annual awards ceremony on March 18. Presentations will be made to the Co-op Student of the Year in business, physics, and computer science and who have demonstrated high academic achievement, a valued contribution to their employer and community, and displayed personal and professional development. Employer Recognition awards will also be announced.
Pat MacAulay, Director of the Office of Skills Development & Learning said, 'The UPEI Co-op Program gives students the opportunity to apply classroom theory and practice in the workplace. This blending of strong academic programming and applied work experience gives our co-op students a competitive advantage in the job market and supports their transition from University to workplace.'
UPEI is among 130 colleges and universities across Canada that is actively involved in developing their students into workplace professionals through co-operative education. UPEI's Co-operative Education Program fosters next generation's leaders, and gives students the opportunity to push themselves, while, at the same time, giving back to the local community. Through real-life experience and guidance from employers and co-op coordinators, students gain valuable knowledge and skills that will be used throughout their career upon graduation.
For more information on UPEI's Co-op Program, visit upei.ca/co-op or email co-op@upei.ca.
