The Government of PEI and 17³Ô¹Ï celebrate National Co-operative Education Week
The Honourable Allen Roach, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, signed a proclamation today presented by 17³Ô¹Ï 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 17³Ô¹Ï 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.'
17³Ô¹Ï 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 17³Ô¹Ï 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.'
17³Ô¹Ï is among 130 colleges and universities across Canada that is actively involved in developing their students into workplace professionals through co-operative education. 17³Ô¹Ï'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 17³Ô¹Ï's Co-op Program, visit or email co-op@upei.ca.