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During their one-on-one exchange during a candidate forum last Wednesday, state Senate Majority Leader Ryan Ferns, R-Ohio and his Democrat challenger, William Ihlenfeld, disagreed on a multitude of issues.
On one thing they were in solid, unqualified agreement, however: State officials need to take a fresh look at community and technical college education in West Virginia.
Appropriately enough, the forum was held at West Virginia Northern Community College's campus in Wheeling. There, WVNCC offers a wide spectrum of two-year degree and certificate programs that can lead graduates into good-paying careers.
For those striving for four-year degrees, WVNCC provides opportunities to complete two years of the work at lower cost than by going away to school.
Similar institutions are at work throughout the state.
Earlier this year, Gov. Jim Justice established a blue-ribbon commission to study the future of four-year public colleges and universities. Most of its members seem to think a similar examination -- including whether state funding is adequate -- is needed for the community and technical institutions.
The blue ribbon panel is in the process of wrapping up its work and preparing recommendations for the governor and Legislature. Presumably, that will lead to action by lawmakers during their 60-day regular session, beginning in January.
Early next year would be a good time for Justice to establish a commission for two-year colleges -- to ensure they receive the strategic consideration they so richly deserve.