By: Sandi Krasowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Source: The Chronicle-Journal
The Ontario government has committed $800,320 to expand enrolment in nursing programs at Lakehead University. The move is part of $56.8 million of provincewide funding announced in August aimed at adding 2,200 nursing professionals to Ontario’s health care workforce.
Lakehead University president Gillian Siddall said the university will be able train more nurses and prepare graduates to make an immediate impact in Ontario’s health-care system. Lakehead’s school of nursing currently offers a four-year program, a three-year compressed program, and an Indigenous nursing entry program.
“Almost 800 students are enrolled in Lakehead’s school of nursing, and this funding provides an opportunity to continue to expand enrolment to help meet local needs among health service providers,” Siddall said.
She added that over the past three years, approximately 10 per cent of the total student population enrolled in Lakehead’s school of nursing programs have been international students. Projected international enrolment in 2025-26 in Lakehead’s school of nursing programs is consistent with previous years.
“Over the past few years, Lakehead has expanded intake into its nursing programs in response to local need,” said Siddall.
The funding will support programs across the school of nursing through additional enrolment in Lakehead’s undergraduate nursing programs, infrastructure to support high-quality nursing education, including lab enhancements and equipment to support clinical simulations and additional student support.
As part of the investment, the province is also expanding registration through online nursing pathways. Personal support workers and registered practical nurses will now be able to advance their education and continue serving their communities.