EDUCATION GUIDE
SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2024
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With an eye on the future, RRC Polytech recently added two new post-graduate programs in advanced manufacturing and mechatronics
Again, there are flexible learning options that cater to the needs of learners. “We deliver them predominantly online, or in evening formats. You can take them course by course versus having to take a year off to come and do a program.” Meier also points to RRC Polytech’s pathway programs, which are designed for Indigenous Manitobans who haven’t had the chance to participate or succeed in post-secondary education due to a variety of barriers. “We knew there was a need for us to create a program that is preparatory in nature and has exploratory experiences for first-time post-secondary learners. It includes academic upgrading, as well as personal, social and financial readi- ness skills.” He adds that the programs typically allow for access into other programs in less than a year. “You do these for about eight months and then you can pathway into our other programs. We’ve tailored those programs specifically for Indigenous Manitobans. There’s a lot of interest in these programs and they’re growing very quickly.” Upskilling and reskilling can also help learners develop competencies such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork and problem solving, particularly when students have the chance to gain hands-on experience.
“At RRC Polytech, what makes us distinct and different is everyone has an opportunity to do work-integrated learning in every program we have,” he says. “As a part of it, those students will be working on a problem within an industry with a partner company.” This approach is showing positive results, since 92 per cent of RRC Polytech graduates in the labour force were employed in 2023-24. In addition, 86 per cent of graduates were in training-re- lated positions. “Learning should be a lifelong experience. We’re focused on everyone from students straight out of high school to students who are mid-career or career-long learners as well.” RRC Polytech is here to assist Manitobans in upgrading their skills and careers, says Meier. “We continuously are looking for ways to help Manito- bans access their training and education needs. Our type of polytechnic education helps learners meet their education goals by providing that blend of deep theory and experi- ential and work-integrated learning. That combination is unique for us as a post -secondary institution.”
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The Access Program at the University of Manitoba was created for students who have traditionally faced barriers to post-secondary education. For 50 years, the program has supported hundreds of students to achieve degrees in sciences, health sciences, liberal arts and fine arts. These students have built careers as doc- tors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, respi- ratory therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, teachers, social work- ers and lawyers. We couldn’t be prouder of these valuable members of our society. The Access Program accepts applications from all students and priority of accep- tance is given to Indigenous, residents from northern and remote communities, newcomers and financially compromised
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PHOTO RWB SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL DIVISION STUDENT WITH RWB COMPANY DANCER AND RWB SCHOOL ALUMNI RAFE PERRY; BY KRISTEN SAWATZKY
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