Ottawa Allocates $72 Million to Boost French Language Education

In a significant investment in bilingual education, the federal government of Canada will contribute over $72 million over the next four years to enhance French language instruction across various educational levels, from preschool to post-secondary institutions. This funding aims to support the growing demand for French immersion programs, particularly in Manitoba.

Funding Agreement Signed

The announcement was made during a media event where Ginette Lavack, the Member of Parliament for St. Boniface-St. Vital, and René Cable, the provincial Minister of Advanced Education and Training, signed a bilateral agreement to facilitate this funding. Lavack highlighted the importance of this investment, stating, “It reflects our commitment to preserving our bilingual heritage and ensuring students have access to quality education in both official languages.”

Joel Martine, the executive director of Canadian Parents for French — Manitoba, expressed optimism about the announcement. “It’s a good day whenever we see an announcement that government sees the value of French learning,” he remarked. He noted that this funding will enable francophone programs in the province to expand and grow. Martine emphasized that a bilingual and multilingual population can enhance Canada’s ability to explore new trade partnerships globally.

Support for Francophone Education Growth

The Division scolaire franco-manitobaine, which serves approximately 6,500 students across 25 schools in Manitoba, is set to benefit significantly from this funding. Luc Bremault, the division’s assistant superintendent, stated, “For a francophone school division in Manitoba, we are always looking to expand. We have been growing by two percent year to year, and this money will definitely help with expanding.”

Under the terms of the agreement, the province of Manitoba is set to match the annual federal contribution of $18 million. However, a provincial spokesperson confirmed that Manitoba will increase its funding to $30 million each year for the duration of the agreement. Cable noted that this investment is crucial for acknowledging Manitoba’s bilingual identity and supporting students in their cultural and professional development.

Earlier this year, the federal government announced a nationwide funding initiative amounting to $1.4 billion over four years aimed at supporting minority language education and second language instruction across provinces and territories. This comes at a time when the demand for French immersion programs is on the rise.

Statistics Canada reported a dramatic increase in the number of French-language minority schools, which rose by 21.5 percent from 2005 to 2021. Additionally, the enrollment of students in elementary and secondary French programs surged by 64 percent during the same period.

This funding marks a pivotal moment for French language education in Canada, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting bilingualism and cultural identity across the nation.