The McGuinty government is providing $175,000 to the Renewed Bridge to Certification for Internationally Educated Nurses program.

The program provides newcomers to Canada with the opportunity to upgrade and adapt their qualifications to become registered nurses and registered practical nurses.

With about 250,000 newcomers coming into Canada each year, the majority choosing Ontario, these particular programs are important to these individuals in helping them find employment, said Khalil Ramal, member of provincial parliament to London-Fanshawe.

"About 50 to 54 per cent (of newcomers) have post-secondary educations and lots of skills but they face a lot of hurdles," said Ramal. "We created (this) bridge program to help them understand the province ... and update their skills."

Fanshawe, in particular, has always encouraged immigrants to be a part of the college, said Howard Rundle, president of Fanshawe College.

"Attracting immigrants is a key growth strategy (for the college)," said Rundle. "Newcomers to Canada bring a wealth of knowledge and experience."

"The bridging program provides transition training … so they can get good jobs."

The donation offered the perfect opportunity to celebrate the successes in the program, said Susan Cluett, chair of health sciences at Fanshawe.

"To date, 86 per cent have completed the program and have secured employment," she said.