QC, AB continue to explore options to rapidly address labour shortages

The Government of Quebec and Government of Alberta are both exploring how they can address critical labour shortages. AB has provided $1M to Northwestern Polytechnic, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge to explore whether physician training centres in Lethbridge and Grande Prairie could address regional doctor shortages. Currently, the two medical schools in AB are located at UAlberta and UCalgary. Meanwhile, QC is looking to create a 30-credit fast-track program for teacher certification to address a provincial teacher shortage. McGill University integrated studies in education chair Lisa Starr commented that while it is important to address the teacher shortage, it is important to ensure that prospective teachers are not rushed through the program and sent into the classroom underprepared.