YOUTH INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

The University of Regina has struck a unique partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan to provide internship opportunities for youth attending university in the province.

Students in the University of Regina's Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program will be provided with an opportunity to gain public sector experience through internships in the provincial public service.

"We are pleased to support the university in this endeavour and provide more opportunities for youth," Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission Pat Atkinson said. "It is our hope that, in the future, these talented young individuals will contribute to the delivery of public services for our province."

This unique partnership is the first such internship program to be struck between a Canadian university and a provincial government.

Successful applicants will have an opportunity to gain eight months of practical experience by applying their knowledge in the provincial public sector as an intern. Up to eight interns will be placed in government departments, and each will be under the direction of a senior public official who will act as a coach.

Eligible students will have successfully completed the course and academic requirements to be considered for the internship program.

"This program provides a focused development opportunity for students to further their education, and their careers," University of Regina President David Barnard said. "I am pleased we are partnering with the Saskatchewan public service to provide such an excellent opportunity for our graduate students."

The Faculty of Administration at the University of Regina will begin accepting applications from current MPA students in January, 2005. The first group of interns will begin their placements in September 2005.

For information about the internship program, please visit the Faculty of Administration website at www.uregina.ca/admin.

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For More Information, Contact:

Colleen Hawkesford Public Service Commission Regina Phone: (306) 787-5581

Jim Duggleby University Relations, University of Regina Regina Phone: (306) 585-5439 Cell: (306) 536-4312