2005 News Releases
November 16, 2005Alberta celebrates International Education Week
Edmonton... Canadian provinces and over 85 countries around the globe are celebrating International Education week from November 14-18. To commemorate the week, Alberta Advanced Education and Technology has several initiatives planned including:
- debuting an updated provincial action plan for international education initiatives;
- launching a new award to recognize the outstanding approaches the province's learning institutions have implemented in the area of internationalizing the teaching and learning practice; and
- distributing new print resources to promote Alberta as a learning destination of choice.
"This week's activities demonstrate the significant contribution that international education makes in preparing Albertans for the global world," said Dave Hancock, Minister of Advanced Education and Technology. "The Alberta government believes it is essential for Albertans to acquire the skills, knowledge and abilities to live and work in the global marketplace, so we've updated the province's action plan on international education and boosted the province's efforts to engage effectively on the international stage."
Various activities and events have also been organized at some of the province's institutions to promote and celebrate the benefits of international education. For a listing of planned events in Alberta or to obtain a copy of the national International Education Week bookmark and poster, visit the week's provincial/national web site located at: iew-sei.ca
The award criteria and application process for the new Teaching and Learning Practice Awards of Distinction are available online at: www.advancededucation.gov.ab.ca/IntlEd/AppForm05.pdf. Applications to the awards program must be submitted no later than January 13, 2006. Successful proposals will be developed into a booklet of good international education practices. The program is open to any full-time or part-time faculty member representing any discipline or program area from Alberta's 21 public or the eight degree-granting private learning institutions.
International students make important economic, social and cultural contributions to Alberta. The presence of international students on campuses enhances Albertans' understanding and appreciation of other cultures. In 2003, over 10,500 international students studied in Alberta. It is estimated that international students spent about $210 million on tuition and living expenses in Alberta in 2003.
