Founded in 1969 to promote education at the college level, and more specifically in the general and vocational colleges known as CEGEPs, the Fédération des cégeps is a voluntary umbrella organization of the 48 public CEGEPs in Québec.

Representative
The CEGEPs’ official spokesperson, the Fédération defends their common interests and represents them on matters of concern to the whole network before government bodies, agencies in the sphere of education and the work world, social groups, the media and the public at large.

Concerted effort
The Fédération facilitates concerted work by CEGEPs on major college issues, the voicing and adoption of common positions, and the exchange of know-how between colleges.

Professional services
CEGEPs avail themselves of the services and advice provided by the Fédération in the areas of education, student affairs, financing, professional development, human resources, legal matters, bargaining and labour relations.

Negotiations
The Fédération des cégeps represents the CEGEPs in the collective agreement bargaining process.

Information
The Fédération des cégeps disseminates information to CEGEPs, its partners, the media and the public through press releases, newsletters and various publications. Its Web site (www.fedecegeps.qc.ca) is a good source of information on the college network.

Convention and contest
Every two years, the Fédération organizes a policy convention and gives out its Awards of Excellence, which underscore the exceptional accomplishments of CEGEP staff members and students. It also holds a science and technology contest called Science, on tourne!, a competition blending humour and science.