Vancouver: The B.C. government is looking for a partner to run the Knowledge Network, the province's 22-year-old educational broadcaster. Expressions of interest are due by Nov. 24, with a decision by March.

"A new model - working in partnership with the private sector, public sector or a combination of both - can help deliver what British Columbians need and want from educational programming well into the future," says Advanced Education Minister Shirley Bond. "A new partnership will allow Knowledge Network to revitalize educational programming, while at the same time redirecting educational funding to areas where it will best serve student needs."

The province will retain the authority to designate the licence to an operator, with CRTC approval, and to negotiate conditions with an operator.

With the growing trend among educators and students to use the Internet and online delivery for distance education, the role of Knowledge Network has shifted from direct educational delivery to providing life-long educational programming.

Government contributes $5.1 million per year of Knowledge Network's current operating budget of $7.4 million. The remaining budget comes from $1.7 million in individual donations and $600,000 in self-funded projects and sponsorships.

-www.knowledgenetwork.ca

By Ian Edwards