By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com
A group which aims to find a viable solution to continue operations at Kemptville College says it is making headway.
The University of Guelph decided to shut down the college in 2015, citing financial reasons. Shortly following the announcement, the Kemptville College Task Force was formed, aimed at salvaging the 97-year old institution.
“Efforts to save the Kemptville campus are gaining momentum throughout all of Eastern Ontario and the province as a whole,” Brian J. Carré, Chairman of the Task Force said in an interview.
The Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, Brad Duguid, toured the college last week where he met with area politicians and community stakeholders.
In a closed meeting, Duguid said he would like to see an intake of students for the Fall 2014 term. However, plans on how that may be achieved are still unknown. The task force has been in ongoing talks with Duguid, and say they are looking forward to hearing back from the minister.
“I believe that the substantial interest shown in saving the Kemptville campus cannot go unnoticed and members of the Task Force look forward to working with Minister Duguid in this regard,” explained Carré.
Numerous models are being explored to maintain agricultural education in Eastern Ontario, including regional, provincial, national and even international opportunities.
“We are looking at all kinds of solutions to keep the Kemptville campus in operation,” he said.
The group meets regularly on Wednesday evenings. Several committees within the task force are expected to be struck shortly.
You can follow Amanda Brodhagen for the latest news on the college issue at @AmandaBrodhagen. The group also has its own Twitter handle at @KemptvilleRTF.