Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Discusses Education, Economic Development with National Panel
KANSAS CITY– Gov. Matt Blunt today participated in a national discussion focused on higher education and its role in economic development. The discussion was part of the National Governors Association (NGA) Innovation America Task Force. Blunt serves as one of six governors on the task force and was tapped for his leadership in education and METS (math, engineering, technology and science) learning.
"In Missouri we are making strategic investments that focus on programs and reforms that will prepare Missouri students to be innovative and competitive in a global economy," Blunt said. "The work of the Innovation America Task Force will ensure that Missouri and our country are actively working to increase and enhance innovation by harmonizing economic development needs with today's education systems."
Innovation America is the NGA's year long initiative to promote innovation throughout the country, to promote strength in math and science skills and to align the country's higher education system with economic development demands.
The governor is already making progress to help address workforce demands in Missouri through initiatives focused on opportunities designed to improve Missourians' skills so they are better prepared for jobs in high growth industries. The governor has supported increases in funding to support Math, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) education programs that will engage students, offer challenging coursework and help prepare students to compete in the global economy.
Governors Blunt and Sebelius worked together in the Kansas City region to secure a $15 million grant for the OneKC Wired Initiative, a bi-state partnership designed to make significant improvements to workforce development and economic transformation through collaborative partnerships.
Blunt also secured a significant funding increase for public colleges and universities along with a sweeping higher education reform bill that introduces accountability measures for higher education and that provides $335 million through the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative to enhance learning and research opportunities on Missouri campuses.
Last year, the governor signed legislation to create Missouri's P-20 Council. The group is working to align education with economic development demands and to introduce students to a lifelong interest in learning.