LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A program recently approved by the Legislature will provide tuition assistance for those seeking worker training through noncredit programs at Nebraska community colleges.
The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the Community College Gap Assistance Program will receive funding from the Nebraska Lottery to help provide financial aid to low-income students and employees.
High school graduates seeking professional certificates or training in non-degree programs can't apply for financial aid from federal or state governments.
A 2014 survey of an estimated 1,200 business leaders by the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce indicates that a lack of aid for those programs has placed a strain on the state's economy. More than half of the companies surveyed say hiring qualified employees remains their biggest challenge.
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