SYDNEY (NS) – February 17, 2009 – The Nova Scotia Community College – Marconi Campus has completed a major upgrade to its facilities thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada through Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC).
The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) took part in the official opening held today.
ECBC provided funding totalling $300,000 for a series of improvements at the Sydney facility that included the construction of a new, 60-seat technology-efficient classroom, a cultural centre for First Nation and African Nova Scotian students and a learning centre to accommodate the needs of students requiring additional assistance with their studies.
“The Nova Scotia Community College has an important role to play in building the Cape Breton Island economy through education and innovation,” said Minister Ashfield. “This project will assist the Marconi Campus in meeting the needs of its diverse student population and support students in their efforts to obtain workplace skills.”
With 13 campuses across the Province, the NSCC has an enrolment of approximately 25,000. The Marconi Campus is home to over 1,100 students and has experienced a 31 percent increase in enrolment in recent years. There has been a marked increase in First Nation and African Nova Scotian students. The larger student base has impacted all aspects of campus life including academic and non-academic support services. The new classroom, as well as the cultural and learning centres will provide new and improved facilities for local students.
“Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.
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INFORMATION:
Dave MacLean
Principal Nova Scotia Community College – Marconi Campus
902-563-2450
D.A Landry
ECBC Communications
902-564-3617