Yellowknife — August 30, 2022
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) released a What We Heard Report (WWHR) today that provides a summary of feedback collected during the engagement process for the Aurora College Transformation Facilities Master Plan (FMP).
The Aurora College transformation is a multi-year initiative, with the anticipated launch of the polytechnic university in May 2025. Completion of the FMP is a critical milestone in the Aurora College transformation and will be released in September 2022. It is a strategic document that the polytechnic university will use to plan the enhancement and expansion of current Aurora College facilities across the NWT. This includes academic buildings, student housing, outdoor learning and ceremonial spaces, as well as vehicle and pedestrian routes.
Northern youth, Aurora College students, faculty and staff, Indigenous governments and community governments, post-secondary education partners, industry, GNWT departments and local community members were engaged and provided valuable information to help shape the FMP. Key themes identified during engagement include: Indigenization of the polytechnic university, sufficient supports for students, community connections, family supports, research, learning-in-place, relevant programming, animated student spaces, amenities and recreation, teaching and learning spaces, partnerships, and student housing.
The WWHR supports the development of the FMP and ensures it will be a comprehensive document that reflects the needs of the people who will be using the polytechnic university facilities.
Quote(s)
- “To ensure the successful transformation of Aurora College into a polytechnic university, our campuses must meet the needs of our future students, creating an environment in which they can thrive. Engagement is an important step in achieving this goal and I am glad to see the What We Heard Report released today and for the opportunity to share with the public the main themes identified during engagement that will support future decisions as transformation progresses”
- R.J. Simpson, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment
Quick facts
- The Aurora College transformation began in October 2018.
- The What We Heard Report was developed for the GNWT and Aurora College. It is being used to inform the overall Facilities Master Plan.
Related links
For information, please contact:
Krystal Pidborochynski
Manager, Strategic Communications
Aurora College Transformation
Government of the Northwest Territories
(867) 767-9065 ext. 71078
