 |
| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
|
| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
|
VANCOUVER – B.C.’s student loan forgiveness program has been expanded to include four professions whose graduates are needed to provide support for children in rural and remote areas of the province.
Speech language pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists will be eligible for the program, which can eliminate their B.C. student loans in three years, Advanced Education Minister Shirley Bond and Linda Reid, minister of state for early childhood development, said today.
“By encouraging graduates to practise in underserved communities, the expanded loan forgiveness program will bring professionals to regions where their services will help meet children’s special needs,” said Bond. “We’re responding to requests from rural communities that want families to stay in their areas, rather than having to move to large centres for the sake of their children.”
Speech pathologists work with non-verbal students, those with learning disabilities and a wide range of other challenges. Audiologists assess the extent of hearing loss, balance and related disorders and make recommendations on treatment. Physiotherapists help treat injury and disability by massage and exercise, and occupational therapists focus on the child’s ability to master skills for independence.
“Each of these professions provides vital support to children of every age, but it’s especially important that their services be available in early childhood to allow interventions to be as effective as possible,” said Reid. “Having speech pathologists, audiologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists more easily accessible will make a huge difference in the lives of children and families.”
Students graduating on or after Dec. 1, 2004, will be eligible for the program. Their B.C. student loan debts will be reduced by 33 per cent for each of the three years they work in an underserved community.
“Government is continuing to work to improve achievement for all students, no matter where they live in B.C.,” said Education Minister Tom Christensen. “We know that it is often difficult for rural schools to provide access to services like a speech language pathologist. The loan forgiveness program will address that, so students with special needs can achieve their best in school.”
The loan forgiveness program was announced in December 2002 for graduates from accredited schools in nursing (including licensed practical nursing), and medical, midwifery and pharmacy schools who began their programs on or after August 1, 2000.
-30-
| ||||||||||||
