This release was issued under a previous government.
Approximately 32 students from across Alberta will be selected for the council. As council members, students will meet with the Minister of Education and Alberta Education staff routinely during the 2017/18 school year to discuss education issues. The first council meeting will take place in fall 2017. There will also be opportunities for council members to interact with each other outside of meetings.
The Minister’s Youth Council will allow students to:
- build positive working relationships
- lead by example in school
- provide input on education initiatives
- participate in leadership opportunities
- engage as informed education partners
Information on how to apply is available at education.alberta.ca/myc. Students with diverse interests, identities, backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. The deadline to do so is May 5, 2017.
“Student input is important to the success of the education system – and our government is committed to ensuring students have opportunities to be engaged. The experience students will gain through the Minister’s Youth Council will serve them in future careers in a diversified economy.”
The Minister’s Youth Council is part of the Government of Alberta’s “Future Ready” initiative that co-ordinates training from kindergarten to work so that all Albertans have the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a changing economy.
"The Public School Boards’ Association of Alberta is incredibly pleased to see the minister’s commitment in leading such an important initiative focused on student voice. Inviting students to share their experiences, wisdom and insights will ensure a vibrant future for Alberta's public education system."
“We at Student Voice Initiative Canada believe that the Alberta Government’s establishment of a direct, Ministerial channel for student engagement is a significant step forward in building a province-wide dedication to student voice. Through our discussions with the government, we have been continuously reassured of their strong commitment to recognizing Alberta’s youth as legitimate stakeholders in their education. We look forward to the bright future that lies ahead for Alberta’s next generation of leaders.”