MORE THAN $76 MILLION DOLLARS FOR POST-SECONDARY CAPITAL PROJECTS

The Government of Saskatchewan announced today that it is providing nearly $76.5 million for capital projects at post-secondary education institutions across the province.

"These funds represent a significant investment in both current and future infrastructure needs of our post-secondary system," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "We are committed to building an environment for students and scholars that reflects excellence, innovation, accessibility and quality."

The capital projects include:

• $50 million for continued construction of D and E wings of the Health Sciences project at the University of Saskatchewan. This facility will train more health professionals to meet the province's health care demands and strengthen Saskatchewan's health research capacity.
• $20.7 million for repair and maintenance of post-secondary facilities such as:
  • Roof replacements, mechanical and structural repairs; and
  • Improvements to heating, cooling and ventilation systems
• $5.7 million to fulfill the government's commitment to the construction of the International Vaccine Centre (InterVac) in Saskatoon. The InterVac facility is scheduled to open later this year.

"This substantial investment will further the university's commitment to innovation and excellence in health sciences and research in life-saving vaccines, as well provide much needed infrastructure support," University of Saskatchewan Provost and Academic Vice-President Brett Fairbairn said. "We are deeply appreciative of the province's commitment to our university which allows us increase the international profile of Saskatchewan and of our university as a contributor to teaching, learning and research."

"Our growing economy and stronger than expected revenues have allowed us to address some critical needs while fulfilling long-standing commitments to invest in Saskatchewan's knowledge economy," Norris said. "These projects will also help maintain our economic momentum."

The Government of Saskatchewan has now committed $335 million in capital funding for post-secondary institutions since the 2008-09 budget. Combined with operating and programming funds, more than $2 billion has been invested in post-secondary education in the province.

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For more information, contact:

Bill Stovin
Advanced Education, Employment and Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0926