CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY FOR A NEW FACILITY AT NIPAWIN

Work on a new facility at Cumberland College's Central Park Learning Centre in Nipawin is well underway thanks to funding by the federal and provincial governments. Randy Hoback, MP Prince Albert and Carrot River Valley MLA Fred Bradshaw on behalf of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris were present to announce funding for the new Centre.

This project is part of $118 million the provincial and federal governments are contributing under the Knowledge Infrastructure Program (KIP) announced in June 2009. The new facility at Cumberland College received funding totalling $7.4 million from the federal and provincial governments.

"Our government's Knowledge Infrastructure Program strengthened partnerships between the provincial and the federal government during the global recession," said Hoback. "The working relationship Fred (Bradshaw) and I have formed is beyond reproach. We will continue to work together for the good of our constituents."

The new space will include nine classrooms, a computer lab, shop area, tutorial and study spaces, conference room, student lounge and administration spaces.

"Our government is committed to enhancing post-secondary infrastructure for our learners and demonstrating our commitment to post-secondary education and skills training," Bradshaw said. "The new facility will provide students with the quality education they need to participate in, and benefit from, the knowledge economy."

Cumberland College is committed to the environment and the green space in and around Central Park and has worked to maintain the integrity of the green space throughout the design phase of the project. "This commitment will continue during the construction phase as we look forward to being a responsible neighbour to the park," Cumberland College Chief Executive Officer Valerie Mushinski said. "We're excited because this facility project will enable local residents to access additional training opportunities right in their home community."

The projected target date for completion is March 2011. Students enrolled in university, trades (electrical, carpentry, welding, automotive), business, health and safety and high school upgrading will be able to enroll in programs at the new campus starting in September 2011.

KIP is a two-year, $2 billion program that is providing economic stimulus measures to support infrastructure enhancement at Canadian post-secondary institutions, including universities and community colleges. It is resulting in the creation of jobs for various graduates, including engineers, architects, trades people and technicians, as well as helping to ensure that Saskatchewan and Canada are better positioned to contribute to and benefit from, the global knowledge economy.

For more information about the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, including program criteria, application instructions and a list of the approved projects to date, please visit www.ic.gc.ca/knowledge-infrastructure.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Jones-Bonk
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3106 Media Relations
Industry Canada
Phone: 613-943-2502