CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has proclaimed next week as "College Application and Exploration Week."

To help students better prepare for higher education, more than 70 schools, colleges and organizations across the state will invite students and their families to explore their future education and careers.

College application labs and workshops will be held, in addition to panel discussions with current college students.

"Our participation in College Application and Exploration Week is an example of West Virginia's leadership in addressing a nationwide effort to increase access to postsecondary education for students today so they will be ready to lead in tomorrow's workforce," Tomblin said in a press release. "Completing some form of education and training beyond high school, whether through certificate programs, two-year degree programs, or four-year degree programs, is an essential step for our citizens as they strive to compete in the global workforce."

The third annual event, hosted by The College Foundation of West Virginia, will be held Monday through Friday.

For more information, visit www.CFWV.com.