Minister Proclaims Nova Scotia Canada's University Capital

Communications Nova Scotia

Published Monday, January 11, 2010

A marketing campaign promoting the world-class offerings of Nova Scotia universities was launched in Halifax. The campaign markets Nova Scotia as "Canada's University Capital" to parents of prospective students.

Canada's University Capital campaign offers a unified voice under the Nova Scotia Come to life brand and reinforces the province's status as an education destination.

Quotes

We are sending a strong message to students across Canada: Nova Scotia is the destination for education in this country. We want prospective students and their parents to know that Nova Scotia’s universities offer a wide range of quality programs and a personalized approach to learning.Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks, on behalf of the Premier

This campaign is one part of government’s overall goal to attract and retain young people to the province. After receiving their education at one of the province’s fine universities, we invite those alumni to stay here, put down roots, and build a life in Nova Scotia.Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks

Nova Scotia is also grateful for the many friends and ambassadors around the world who have come to Nova Scotia for their higher education and continue to boast about the province, its people and their experiences at our universities.Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks

The education I received in Nova Scotia was invaluable to me. My professors knew me by name. I felt like I was part of a community. The value given to excellence in my field of study instilled a sense of pride that has carried on throughout my career. It provided me with the foundation for life-long learning.John Rogers, CEO Stewart McKelvey, Dalhousie and Acadia alumnus

The competition for students in Canada is fierce, this campaign will help Nova Scotia's universities stand out and remind our own young people that a world-class education can be found right here.John Harker, Chair, Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents and President, Cape Breton University

Quick Facts

  • The campaign targets parents of prospective students in Ontario.
  • An interactive website gives visitors the opportunity to meet a professor from each university and receive a brief introduction to their university. From the campaign site, visitors can access links to explore offerings of each university and a video highlights the benefits of a Nova Scotia university education.
  • In 2009, more than 16,000 out-of-province students and more than 4,000 international students from 100 countries were enrolled in University programs across the province.
  • Nova Scotia's universities attract a young population and retaining students after graduation ensures Nova Scotia continues to offer an educated workforce.
  • Nova Scotia has an 89 per cent retention rate of Nova Scotian graduates from its universities.
  • About 21 per cent of students from outside Nova Scotia who graduate from a Nova Scotia university choose to live and work in Nova Scotia.
  • Nova Scotia has the highest participation rate per capita in post-secondary education.
  • Education is a priority in Nova Scotia. The province is home to world-class universities, a leading-edge community college system and a strong private college presence. Small class sizes, approachable faculty, established co-operative programs and world-class research facilities combine to give Nova Scotia a competitive edge.

Learn More

Media Contact

Stacey Jones-Oxner, Nova Scotia Come to life
902-424-4163
Cell: 902-497-6062
E-mail:

Images

Nova Scotia Agricultural College students with Dr. Richard Donald, VP Research
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The faces of Nova Scotia: Canada's University Capital
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Screenshot of universitycapital.ca
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Universite Sainte Anne – Christine Igot
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Acadia University – Dr. Harish Kapoor
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Atlantic School of Theology – Rev. Dr. David MacLachlan
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Cape Breton University – Lindsay Marshall
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Dalhousie University – Dr. Shrinivas Sampalli X
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University of King's College – Dr. Elizabeth Edwards
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Mount Saint Vincent – Dr. Meredith Ralston
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Nova Scotia Agricultural College – Dr. Richard Donald
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Nova Scotia College of Art and Design – Dr. Christine Halzar-Hunt
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St. Francis Xavier University – Dr. Steve Baldner
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Saint Mary’s University – Dr. Shelagh Crooks
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Videos

University Capital Video
John Rogers, CEO, Stewart McKelvey Law Firm
Adrian Lee – King's College Student
Video of Event

Audio

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal minister Bill Estabrooks says Nova Scotia universities offer a unique education experience.
Cape Breton University professor Lindsay Marshall says this campaign will help promote education in Nova Scotia.
St. FX dean of arts Steve Baldner says the universities are working towards a common goal.
Richard Donald, the vice president of research, extension and outreach at Nova Scotia Agricultural College, says there are long term benefits to this campaign.
Acadia University professor Harish Kapoor says the campaign will make Canadians aware of what Nova Scotia has to offer in post secondary education.
Christine Igot, professeure à l'Université Sainte-Anne, affirme qu'il est important que les gens se rendent compte de la qualité exceptionnelle de l'éducation dans les universités de la Nouvelle-Écosse.