On August 6th, WeRPN CEO Dianne Martin was at Sheridan College’s Centre for Healthy Communities alongside members of government including Minister of Health Sylvia Jones and Minister of Long-Term Care Natalia Kusendova-Bashta for an announcement of $56.8 million in new funding to train an additional 2,200 nurses across the province, including Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs).
“Today’s announcement from the Ontario government is a strong commitment to strengthening our province’s nursing pipeline, and a vital step forward for the health and well-being of all Ontarians.”, says Dianne. “This significant investment in the expanded enrollment in nursing programs at publicly assisted colleges and universities will directly support dedicated registered practical nurses and ensure that more individuals are working together to bolster access to excellent care closer to home, ultimately benefitting patients and communities across Ontario.”
WeRPN’s ongoing advocacy continues to deliver results. The government’s latest commitment reflects our recommendations to expand nursing program seats and enhance access to education for nurses—clear evidence that our collective voice is being heard.
In addition to increasing enrolment capacity, the announcement includes expanded access to flexible, online education options for RPNs and PSWs looking to pursue their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Practical Nursing diplomas at Ontario colleges and universities.
This investment supports career growth and takes meaningful steps toward addressing urgent health human resource challenges across the sector.
To learn more about our advocacy efforts, visit our website.