By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
The Ontario government is investing $9.65 million in Windsor–Essex to upgrade learning facilities at the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, aiming to prepare students for in-demand jobs with modern equipment and infrastructure.
The funding, announced Thursday, is part of a $242-million provincial program to renew classrooms and labs at publicly funded colleges and universities. Officials say the investment will strengthen the region’s pipeline of highly skilled workers and ensure students have access to state-of-the-art learning environments.
“Access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment is key to preparing students for success after graduation,” said Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor–Tecumseh. “This investment will help students develop critical, job-ready skills, secure good-paying careers and continue to drive the growth of Windsor–Essex’s local workforce.”
The University of Windsor will receive $4.9 million through the Facilities Renewal Program for biotech lab renovations, classroom upgrades and roof replacement, along with $700,000 from the Equipment Renewal Fund to enhance experiential and flexible learning in high-demand programs.
St. Clair College will receive $3.6 million for roof and electrical upgrades and sump pump replacements, plus $425,500 for updated medical laboratory equipment and new computers for its architectural technology program.
Nolan Quinn, Ontario’s minister of colleges, universities, research excellence and security, said the investments will help students remain competitive in critical industries. “Through this investment, our government is ensuring that students have the modern tools and facilities they need to stay on the cutting edge of our critical industries in their future careers,” he said.
University of Windsor president J.J. McMurtry called the funding vital to modernizing classrooms and labs. “UWindsor is committed to ensuring students are prepared to thrive in an evolving labour market,” he said.
St. Clair College president Michael Silvaggi said the support comes as Ontario’s college system approaches its 60th anniversary. “Our facilities require continuous care to meet modern standards,” he said. “This Ministry support enables us to keep campuses safe and welcoming while ensuring classroom and lab equipment remains current and aligned with today’s learning needs.”
The province says the investment builds on record funding for post-secondary institutions, including nearly $1 billion to expand seats in programs such as construction, teaching, nursing and STEM.