2002/03 Annual Service Plan Report Ministry of Advanced Education

Message from the Deputy Minister

It is my pleasure to present the Minister of Advanced Education with the Ministry of Advanced Education's Service Plan Report for 2002/03. This report, which is in accordance with government's commitment to enhanced accountability and transparency regarding government business, provides a summary of the Ministry's performance and an accounting of the funds expended during the fiscal year.

The work of the Ministry is focused on achieving the goals and objectives identified in its three-year Service Plan for 2002/03 to 2004/05. These goals and objectives were informed, in part, by the Core Services Review of 2001/02 and the government's New Era commitments.

Over the past year, much has been done to ensure a top-notch post-secondary education system in British Columbia. New legislation now expands the potential for public and private post-secondary institutions to offer degrees, which will enhance student choice. Integration of the post-secondary education system has improved through efforts to increase the number of student transfer agreements among institutions. Also, a greater balance between education costs and benefits has been achieved by revising the method the Ministry uses to provide funding to public institutions.

The Ministry has taken steps to encourage economic and social development in British Columbia. Skill shortages in strategic areas are being addressed through efforts to increase the number of graduates in high-tech and health fields, and through the creation of a new industry training model. Research capabilities in British Columbia are also being expanded by establishing research chairs in key fields and by enhancing research infrastructure.

Finally, management of the education system is becoming more responsive and effective through improvements to Ministry business practices and by reducing the turnaround time for student financial aid applications.

Through these and other initiatives, the Ministry, in partnership with students, educators, and industry, is well positioned to support an integrated, accessible, high-quality post-secondary education system.

Sincerely,

Gerry Armstrong
Deputy Minister