New Micro-Credential Program Helps Boost B.C. Rural, Remote Economic Development

A new micro-credential program at North Island College is aimed at helping people living in rural and Indigenous communities build skill sets to foster economic growth in their communities.

“Improving access to skills training helps people progress in their careers and creates more economic opportunities for their communities,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

“By funding the development of this micro-credential program led by North Island College, we are helping to create more skilled workforces that will promote economic resilience and support the current and future needs of rural and Indigenous communities.”

The 12-week micro-credential program includes six individual courses specifically geared toward building economic development capacity for rural and remote municipalities, local government and Indigenous communities.

The courses will help train people in such things as rural community development, entrepreneurship, market research and analysis, infrastructure and resource development.

The curriculum also includes a final project where students will apply their knowledge beyond the classroom and help design an economic development plan for a municipality or a First Nations community.

“Innovation is critical to the success of B.C.’s rural and Indigenous communities,” said Lisa Domae, president and CEO, NIC.

“Barriers to accessing important economic development training can leave rural communities behind. These stackable micro credentials will be available both online and in person, allowing interested learners to stay in community and build critical capacity for their home community.”

The program is an NIC-led joint venture with six other participating public rural colleges. NIC will be engaging with local communities, industry experts and First Nations to build a program and curriculum plan that best aligns with the visions and needs of the people in those communities.
The Province is supporting the development of the micro-credential program with $278,000.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.