11 April 2000 (Bogota, Colombia)

University of Alberta to tackle education reform in Colombia

Increasing access to education, and improving the efficiency of the system is part of the push for peace in Colombia. Beginning with improving the management of schools, to integrating conflict-resolution into the curriculum, the University of Alberta has been invited to design, test and implement educational programs to facilitate this monumental change.

"Decentralization of the basic education system in Colombia has created tremendous challenges, especially for administrators who find their roles in flux. We are looking forward to this opportunity to work within the education system, at the local level, developing stronger leaders and managers," said Dr. Brian Stevenson, University of Alberta Associate Vice-President (International).

Today, University of Alberta President, Rod Fraser and Guillermo A. Carvajalino S., Executive Director of the Corona Foundation, signed a formal agreement to begin work in this critical area. The signing was witnessed by Dr. Germán Bula, Colombia's Minister of Education

"The University of Alberta was chosen because of our depth of expertise in education, international programs and distance delivery," said President Rod Fraser. "This is truly an outstanding opportunity to showcase our ability to effectively partner with both government and private funding sources for the betterment of society."

The Corona Foundation will contribute initial funding to the project, which is a joint initiative of the Faculty of Education and International Programs, University of Alberta International, The Ministry of Education (Colombia) and The Corona Foundation.

• For background on the Corona Foundation, visit their website at Corona Foundation
• For information on the University of Alberta's Faculty of Education, visit their website at Faculty of Education