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BC Government to Add Computer Coding to School Curriculum
Monday, January 18, 2016Company Profile | Follow Company
Vancouver, BC, January 18, 2016--(T-Net)--Premier Christy Clark today unveiled a multi-year #BCTECH Strategy that will support growth of B.C.'s vibrant technology sector - and strengthen British Columbia's diverse knowledge-based economy.
As part of the BCTECH strategy, the B.C. government announced plans to introduce computer coding in its school curriculum for K-12 students, as part of an effort to help address a chronic skills shortage in the BC tech industry.
The plan highlights K-12 curriculum which the government believes will provide the opportunity for more than 600,000 B.C. students to gain basic skills needed for careers in technology.
“Building our talent pool is a significant piece of the strategy. We need to ensure that B.C. companies have the talent they need to build their business and develop their ideas. The K-12 curricular changes focusing on math, sciences, coding and creativity will develop the fundamental skills needed for careers in technology.” said Mike Bernier, Minister of Education.
Details on the new K-12 education system changes include:
Grades K-5
Grades 6-9
Grades 10-12
Targeted additional programs under the initiative include coding academies, greater access to work experience electives for high school students, and dual credit partnerships between secondary and post-secondary institutions.
“Technology is everywhere and the impact it has on our daily lives is immense. B.C.'s tech strategy represents the steps government is taking to encourage growth of the sector and build the tech leaders of tomorrow to ensure that B.C. has the talent and investment needed so that companies can develop innovative products and ideas to fuel our economy.” said Amrik Virk, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens' Services.
“We all want a diverse, knowledge-based economy that supports innovation. That's why government is working with colleges, universities, institutes and the tech industry to adjust training and education to meet current and future demand for talent - as one-quarter of government funding for the post-education sector is earmarked for jobs in demand,” said Premier Clark.
As a result of consultation with the tech sector, the new #BCTECH Strategy focuses on three key areas: access to capital for promising companies, talent development and market access.
Additional details on the government's BCTECH strategy can be found here and here.
Media Contacts
Sam Oliphant
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 952-7252
Joanne Whittier
Communications Manager
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens' Services
250 387-0172
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