With all the changes happening in the world it is imperative for Canada - and Alberta especially - to shift from a virtually sole focus on a resource extraction economy into a more right-brained economy and society. The Dave Hancock Inspiring Education initiative as Minister of Education has been a step in the right direction. The new Literacy Policy and framework for Alberta is now established and needs life breathed into it as a key part of this shift in consciousness.
I have been involved with others in a new initiative that addresses this overarching concern about the future of Alberta in a series of public dialogues entitled Learning Our Way to the Next Alberta. I encourage you to visit the site and see what we are up to in this effort to influence the future direction of Alberta.
The Premier's Council for Economic Strategy has a discussion paper out that starts to reshape the thinking around Alberta's future too. The Council is focused on six key questions:
- What must Alberta do to earn a global reputation as a responsible energy producer and natural resource steward?
- How can we ensure the Alberta of the future has a robust, stable economy and fiscal position?
- What steps can Alberta take to create new wealth through knowledge and innovation?
- How do we ensure we have the healthy skilled and engaged citizens needed to drive innovation and sustain prosperity?
- How do we ensure Alberta's urban and rural communities are vibrant, supportive and inclusive?
- How can we engage more strategically with the rest of Canada and the world?
All of these question integrate into each other - which is a good thing, We need a robust and vibrant discussion amongst Albertans on each and every one of them. There is a place to share your thoughts on these and other concerns with the Premier's Council here. I strongly recommend you engage and exert some influence on the future of Alberta in this way. I will be engaging on these questions over the next weeks through this blog and my public speaking opportunities.
