Ottawa Allocates $72 Million for Advancing French Education

The Canadian federal government has committed more than $72 million over the next four years to enhance French language education from preschool through to post-secondary institutions. This significant funding announcement was made at a media event in Winnipeg, where federal and provincial officials underscored the importance of promoting bilingualism in Canada.

At the event, Ginette Lavack, Member of Parliament for St. Boniface-St. Vital, and René Cable, Manitoba’s Minister of Advanced Education and Training, formalized a bilateral agreement aimed at supporting francophone and French immersion programs. Lavack expressed pride in Manitoba’s bilingual heritage and its commitment to fostering French language education, stating that it reflects the province’s historical values rooted in its two official languages.

Joel Martine, the executive director of Canadian Parents for French – Manitoba, welcomed the funding as a positive step forward. He emphasized that this financial support will significantly contribute to the growth of francophone programs throughout the province. “It’s a good day whenever we see an announcement that government sees the value of French learning,” Martine remarked.

The funding comes at a strategic time for Canada, as the nation seeks to broaden its international trade partnerships. Martine highlighted the importance of cultivating a bilingual and multilingual population to enhance innovation and learning opportunities. “The more we have a bilingual, multilingual population, the more we can learn to grow and innovate,” he stated.

The investment is expected to benefit approximately 6,500 students enrolled in 25 schools across Manitoba, according to Luc Bremault, assistant superintendent of the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine. Bremault noted that the funding will enable the division to continue its annual growth, which has averaged two percent each year. “This money will definitely help with expanding,” he said.

Under the terms of the agreement, Manitoba is required to match the federal funding of $18 million annually. However, a provincial spokesperson confirmed that the province plans to increase its contribution to $30 million each year for the duration of the agreement. Cable emphasized that this investment in French language education aligns with the vision originally articulated by Louis Riel, a key figure in the province’s history.

Cable stated, “By ensuring access to post-secondary programs in French, we will enable students to strengthen their cultural identity while preparing to become active bilingual citizens in their professional and personal lives.” This commitment comes in response to the growing demand for French immersion programs across Canada.

According to recent data from Statistics Canada, the number of French-language minority schools surged by 21.5 percent from 2005 to 2021, while student enrollment at elementary and secondary levels increased by 64 percent. This trend underscores the rising interest in French language education as a vital component of Canada’s educational landscape.

As this funding initiative unfolds, it promises to support the continued growth and development of French language education in Manitoba, fostering a bilingual future for the province and its residents.