Students from across the province are being invited to join the Minister of Education around the discussion table.

Establishing a Student Advisory Council was a priority outlined in the provincial education reform announced last month and now the government is looking for a diverse array of students from across Manitoba to fill those spots. According to Cliff Cullen, the purpose of this council is to harness the talent and forward-thinking perspective of the youth to help shape the future of Manitoba schooling.

“Council members will be able to voice the changes they want to see and it’s important that I hear directly from students about their experiences in school,” states the Minister. “Sharing their experiences and insights will help inform how we work and will ensure a vibrant future for Manitoba’s education system.”

The Student Advisory Council will enable youth to have more influence on the education system and issues that affect them. The council’s responsibilities will cover a variety of aspects including:

  • discussing and providing input on matters related to the education system and how they affect the children and young people who experience it;
  • bringing youth insights to the department and the education sector to help inform the path forward;
  • creating a network for students across Manitoba with a way to share their perspectives and advice and;
  • provide feedback on department initiatives and work collaboratively with fellow council members.

The Student Advisory Council will be made up of up to 20 Manitoba youth, aged 14 to 18. Council members will report directly to the education minister for a 12-month term beginning this August and ending in August of next year.

In addition to meeting with the minister, the council will meet with other government staff and education stakeholders throughout their time in office.

For more information on how students can apply to the council, visit the government's website. The deadline for applications is May 10 and successful applicants will be announced this coming June.