by Liz Sandals, news.ontario.ca

Ontario is expanding two programs to help more high school students get the skills and

knowledge they need for the jobs of the future and earn credits towards the next step in their

postsecondary education.

This fall, the province Specialist High Skills Major program will be expanded to accommodate

an additional 2,000 students and just over 100 new programs for the 2016-17 school year. As a

result, more than 48,000 students will be enrolled in 1,835 Specialist High Skills Majors

programs across the province - an innovative, high demand program that lets high school

students focus on a career path that matches their skills and interests while meeting the

requirements of their high school diploma.

By the end of 2016-17, all Specialist High Skills Majors programs participants will have access to

an innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship module that was developed in partnership with

the University of Toronto Rotman School of Management. This training will encourage

participants to develop innovative and creative solutions to real industry or sector-related

problems - a skill is that is valued in today economy.

Ontario is also expanding the Dual Credit program to include 400 more students across the

province next year. This program helps students earn credits that count toward their high

school diploma as well as their postsecondary certificate, college diploma, degree or

apprenticeship certification.

Helping high school students prepare for the demands of tomorrow workforce is part of the

government economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow

the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including

helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality

college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public

infrastructure in Ontario history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative,

high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a

more secure retirement.