Graham Long, Free Press
There will soon be another option available for local residents looking to upgrade or improve their education without leaving home. The Town of Drayton Valley has signed an agreement with the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Extension that will make it easier for people in this community to access courses locally.
Beginning in the new year, residents of Drayton Valley and the surrounding area will be able to take continuing education courses offered by the faculty in the areas of business, environment, and technology. Those who are eligible will be able to pursue a post-secondary education with assistance from the Town’s Zero Fee Tuition Program.
“We’re truly excited to begin this partnership with the Town of Drayton Valley,” says Faculty of Extension interim dean Maria Mayan. “It fits very well with our mission here at Extension, which is to work in and with our surrounding communities to support lifelong learners throughout their careers. We know that close, mutually-beneficial relationships with industry, our rural partners, and our learners are key to a sustainable and thriving shared future and we’re looking forward to building these relationships further.”
The Faculty of Extension was established in 1912. Over the years it has developed a focus on research and community engagement, including both continuing education and professional development.
With restrictions currently in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic, programming will be offered remotely initially. However, there is potential for courses to be made available in person through the Clean Energy Technology Centre in the future once restrictions have been lifted.
This is the second significant announcement regarding education in Drayton Valley in recent weeks. Last month the Town reached an agreement with Northern Lakes College to offer a variety of courses in the community.
Mayor Michael Doerksen says the latest move will help position Drayton Valley as the education hub for west central Alberta.
“Drayton has always been an entrepreneurial-minded community and we’re focused on finding innovative ways to expand industry development and, ultimately, job creation through improved access to and investment in education,” he says.
For more information on the University of Alberta Faculty of Extension, visit ext.ualberta.ca.
