April 14, 2016. We are pleased that the Government of Alberta (GOA) has chosen to support education. The 2% increase to our Campus Alberta Grant announced today in the Alberta Jobs Plan Budget Address for 2016-17 represents an increase of $436k in funding to the College.

Portage College cut 5.4% or $1.95M from its 2016-17 operating budget so as to balance it. The College's 2016-17 budget includes $750k in "grow-forward" operating initiatives. The College's budget strategically positions it to respond to the changing needs of industry, communities, student learners and ensures ongoing sustainability into future years.

The College appreciates the 2% increase as it partially offsets cuts by $436K.

"In an era of financial restraint the College has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to manage financial resources after undertaking 5 successive years of cuts to its budget. It is increasingly difficult to provide the same level of service with upward cost pressures on our current budget." Said Dr. Trent Keough, President and CEO of Portage College. "Two percent does not enable the college to have a growth plan because of costs associated with deferred capital, regular maintenance, the necessity to refurbish ageing equipment and inflation."

"Portage College is encouraged by the focus on meeting the needs of disenfranchised, disadvantaged, underemployed and the unemployed. Portage plays a critical role in economic and social engagement in this region." Said Ray Danyluk, Board Chair, Portage College. "We fully support moving Alberta forward."