The Government of Canada helps
open doors to higher education
It's getting easier to keep learning! Canadians
interested in pursuing post-secondary education will now have access to more
opportunities then ever, as details of the recent changes to student financial
assistance were unveiled.
The Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human
Resources and Social Development announced the changes at Kitchener's Pathways
to Education Program.
"Because of the changes our Government has
introduced, the dream of a post secondary education will be open to every
Canadian regardless of their level of income," said Minister Solberg. "What a
tremendous opportunity for students and for their potential, and what a powerful
advantage for Canada."
The changes in student financial assistance programs
include a new up-front Canada Student Grant of $250 per month for students from
low-income families and $100 per month from students from middle-income
families; a new repayment plan to help students who are having difficulty paying
back their student loans, as well as improved services for students to simplify
the whole loan process; and greater support for students with permanent
disabilities.
"We congratulate the Government of Canada for its
wonderful new initiatives related to student financial assistance," said
Pathways representative Ms. Cathy Brothers. "These initiatives will truly make a
difference in the lives of our young people who are pursuing post-secondary
education."
As part of the event, Pathways graduate Mr. Mohammed
Shafique spoke about how these changes will help those in pursuit of
post-secondary education. "The most daunting challenge we face is related to
finances," said Mr. Shafique. "That is why programs that provide financial
assistance for low-income students are so important. It opens up doors of
opportunity that are otherwise closed to us."
These programs will be implemented for the 2009-2010
school year. |