Launch of Pan-Canadian Designation Policy Framework for Student Financial Assistance
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, November 17, 2004 – Provincial and territorial ministers responsible for postsecondary education and the federal minister of Human Resources and Skills Development are pleased to announce the launch of the Pan-Canadian Designation Policy Framework.
Designation is the process through which postsecondary educational institutions become eligible for government financial assistance programs for students, meaning that students at those institutions are eligible to apply for financial aid.
The Framework will help guide provinces and territories in developing, implementing, and maintaining their own designation policies. The Framework establishes minimum pan-Canadian criteria and expectations with respect to management of student financial assistance by designated educational institutions. It will also enhance public accountability to students and taxpayers while recognizing the need for provincial/territorial flexibility in addressing diverse local needs.
Over the next several months, jurisdictions participating in the Canada Student Loans Program will be finalizing their policies and procedures in support of the Framework and will be contacting designated educational institutions to provide details of the Framework. (Quebec, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut do not participate in the Canada Student Loans Program and were not part of the development of the Framework.)
Provinces, territories, and the federal government are committed to expanding and enhancing the Framework as a collaborative effort, as well as ensuring that educational institutions receive the information and support needed to move forward on this important initiative.
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Information:
Colin Bailey
Council of Ministers of Education, Canada
Tél. :(416) 962-8100, ext. 259
Courriel : c.bailey
www.cmec.ca
M. Richard Boczkowski
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Tél. :(819) 934-4052
Courriel : richard.boczkowski@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
www.hrsdc.gc.ca