BUILDING UPGRADE FOR SASKATCHEWAN INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGIES

A $2.1 million renovation to the Saskatoon campus building of the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) was officially opened today.

The project was cost-shared by the Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada as part of the Knowledge Infrastructure Program.

"This represents another important investment in quality post-secondary education and skills training for First Nations people," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "First Nations youth play an increasingly important role building Saskatchewan communities, while contributing to our economy now and into the future."

"Our government is investing in research and training facilities on campuses across the country to create jobs, help our economy recover quickly and improve the quality of life of Canadians," noted Brad Trost, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Humboldt. "This investment created local jobs and helped improve SIIT's research infrastructure, providing benefits now and for years to come."

The construction project at the 4th Avenue campus will enhance SIIT's capacity to deliver distance learning programs and allow the relocation of the Academics department.

"I would like to thank both governments for their support of this project which has been well-received by students and our staff," SIIT President Randell Morris said. "This improvement in our learning spaces and the development of a video conference lab will enable us to reach more students in outlying destinations."

The Saskatchewan Government has committed more than $55 million in post-secondary capital projects through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program since 2009.

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For more information, contact:

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