1. Setting the Scene: Drowning or Waving? Developing National Higher Education Agendas The Wellington Group Forum December 2, 2008 - Sydney Raymond Théberge, Director General

2. Postsecondary Education in Canada  One of the highest participation rates  Solely governed by provincial/territorial governments  Third highest expenditure relative to GDP among OECD countries

3. Review by Seven Provinces  Common issues Quality Access Funding Accountability

4. Common Themes of Concern  Under-represented groups Aboriginal people Adult learners People with disabilities Rural students Women in non-traditional roles Francophones in minority settings

5. Common Themes of Concern  Infrastructure/Capacity Institutional capacity Funding  Quality Research and data gathering Accreditation  Accountability

6. Common Themes of Concern  Affordability Tuition increases Student financial assistance Apprenticeships Distance education

7. Common Themes of Concern  Student financial assistance  International Attracting international students Studying abroad

8. Common Themes of Concern  Knowledge economy Apprenticeship systems Relationship with business and industry Increase capacity Training for health professionals

9. Common Themes of Concern  Transition from secondary school/ seamless systems Secondary school outreach Credit transfer system Lifelong learning system Coordination with labour market

10. For more information  CMEC’s Web site (www.cmec.ca)www.cmec.ca Data, reports, and publications Links, information Updates and news subscription  Contact person Raymond Théberge (r.theberge@cmec.ca)