NORTHWEST REGION TO RECEIVE 114 TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

As part of the Province's $52.6 million training announcement, another 114 citizens in the northwest region will have an opportunity to receive the training they need.

In total, 2,584 new opportunities have been created in Saskatchewan.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is delivering on its promise to expand training opportunities to meet the demands of our province's vibrant and growing industries and businesses," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "These opportunities provide young people in every corner of the province with an even brighter future – and more opportunities to learn, grow and prosper right here at home."

The total training investment in the northwest region is worth $460,000, which will provide the following training opportunities:

• 24 training opportunities in Tri-Trades (automotive-mechanical) for Aboriginal learners in the north-west region;

• 15 additional Adult Basic Education training opportunities in North Battleford and 15 more in Meadow Lake, both with a focus on Employment Readiness; and

• 60 Adult Basic Education opportunities in locations to be determined.

"From oilfield training in western Saskatchewan to diamond driller training in the north, we're creating the opportunities our young people need where they need them," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Pat Atkinson said. "We're drawing a direct path between the learner and the job, and creating the training opportunities necessary to bring the two together."

"North West Regional College is pleased to work with business, labour and government to build our regional economy," North West Regional College CEO Bryan Nylander said. "Our region has seen a major increase in economic activity and this investment allows us to better prepare our population to satisfy the workforce needs associated with this activity."

The $52.6 million total represents the greatest investment in training in the Province's history.

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For More Information, Contact:

Christopher Jones-Bonk Advanced Education and Employment Regina Phone: 306-798-3106

Bryan Nylander North West Regional College North Battleford Phone: 306-937-5120