NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Growing Technology Literacy and Entrepreneurship in Education
Newfoundland and Labrador’s booming technology sector is full of homegrown success stories. According to TechNL, the sector is valued at $1.6 billion, with each technology job providing approximately $400,000 of value to the provincial economy.
“Local companies like Verafin, Kraken Robotics, CoLab Software, and Mysa Smart Thermostats are positioning themselves as global leaders in their respective industries,” said Premier Andrew Furey. “But these companies often face challenges in accessing skilled labour.”
Under the leadership of Premier Furey, a Liberal government will continue to improve educational opportunities for young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians seeking to enter the technology industry.
“Our government will provide comprehensive technology opportunities to students, from introductory modules in primary school to courses in high school in order to prepare students for a career in the province’s exciting technology sector,” said Premier Furey.
Already, the Furey government has introduced the Technology Career Pathway program to be launched in the 2021/22 school year. A Liberal government will further work with teachers to introduce comprehensive new computer science programming so K-12 students in the province can access leading technology education.
Continuing to grow the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Newfoundland and Labrador is a top priority for the Furey government. Post-secondary institutions play a key role in growing the provincial innovation economy through entrepreneurial training and new business creation.
“Building upon the success of Memorial University’s Genesis Centre, Centre for Entrepreneurship and Centre for Social Enterprise, we will expand entrepreneurship in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Premier Furey.
A Furey government will work with education stakeholders to expand the entrepreneurship ecosystem throughout MUN and CNA campuses across the province, leading to new businesses, new jobs, and increased investment.
Focusing on entrepreneurship in schools across the province, the Furey government will provide the education and inspiration for the next generation of innovators and founders
“We’re watching history in the making. Startups, entrepreneurs, and local tech companies are creating jobs, opportunities, and a more viable future for people right here at home,” said Furey.
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Media contacts:
Meghan McCabe
(709) 765-6946
Laura Thomas
(709) 769-0610