Ontario announces joint funding to create ag training program at Conestoga College

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Ontario’s provincial government, along with the federal government, has announced funding for several projects that will support labour and training needs in the farming sector. This includes $180,000 towards the development of a new college program that will provide education and training in the latest agricultural equipment.

“Helping to meet the labour and training needs of our agri-food sector is a priority for this government. Supporting those with a passion for a career in agriculture is key to our economy and ensures our food supply chain continues to produce healthy and nutritious food for Ontario families,” says Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Our government is doing everything possible to ensure farmers both today and those in the future have the training and skills necessary to operate their farm operations effectively.”

Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), the federal and provincial governments will assist Conestoga College in the creation, launch, and delivery of a pilot program to expand training opportunities for current farm sector employees, and those interested in careers in ag, according to a press release.

“Access to skilled labour is critical on farms and in processing facilities and this pilot program will help farmers meet their labour needs while allowing more Canadians to obtain meaningful and challenging employment in the agricultural and agri-food sector,” says Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau.  “A skilled agricultural workforce will unlock the tremendous potential of our agri-food industry, and help our farmers and food processors to continue to drive our economy, create jobs and feed Canada and the world.”

Funding for these projects is provided under the Place to Grow: Agri-Food Innovation Initiative. In addition to the college program, the governments are committing up to $594,000 to other projects that will boost labour supply and training in the agri-food sector.

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