The Manitoba Public Insurance building in downtown Winnipeg. (CHRISD.CA FILE)
WINNIPEG — Manitoba Public Insurance is investing over $1.3 million to expand and establish adult driver training programs across the province, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
The Crown corporation said on Thursday the initiative aims to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities, especially in rural and northern communities.
“We are proud to increase our support for these programs across the province to ensure more new drivers have access to quality training, including experience making the right decisions behind the wheel and creating a foundation of responsible driving habits,” said Satvir Jatana, MPI’s president and CEO, in a release.
MPI is partnering with institutions like the University College of the North (UCN), Assiniboine College, and Citizens’ Bridge to provide accessible Class 5 driver training. UCN’s program, which received nearly 400 applications in 2023, will continue with an additional $495,000 in funding, while Assiniboine College will launch a new driver education course on November 25 with $446,000 in support.
Citizens’ Bridge, which offers training to low-income and newcomer Manitobans, will expand its capacity with $411,000 in MPI funding. The programs are designed to help new drivers gain the skills and confidence needed to navigate Manitoba’s roads safely.
