(a) It is found and determined by the Seventy-Fifth General Assembly of the State of Arkansas that:

(1) The education and employment of its populace are two (2) of the highest goals of modern government;

(2) Technological advancements in industrial production and business are changing the means and methods in which business is conducted in world markets;

(3) Existing businesses and industries in Arkansas must respond to these changes in order to survive;

(4) If the state is to develop a stronger economic base, steps must be taken to provide existing businesses and industries with the tools necessary for continued development, and new industries must be convinced of the state's desire to have them locate within our borders;

(5) In both instances a highly educated and trained work force is an essential element;

(6) Although improvements have been and are being made in secondary and postsecondary vocational and technical education programs in the state, no program currently exists which combines applied advanced mathematics and science and general education with highly technical vocational programs at the certificate and associate degree level; and

(7) The financial resources of the state dictate that such a program should be established for the State of Arkansas.

(b) It is the intent of the General Assembly that the institute authorized by this section, § 6-65-218, § 6-65-219 [repealed], and §§ 6-65-220 -- 6-65-224 should constantly evaluate its programs and modify or delete programs as the needs of business and industry change.