UNIVERSITY AUTONOMY RECOGNIZED IN GOVERNANCE CHANGES

Today, Learning Minister Andrew Thomson announced a change in the governance structures of the province's universities that will more accurately reflect existing relationships between government and the universities. This fall, legislation will be introduced to reduce the number of government-appointed board members by one, thereby allowing the universities to appoint a majority of members.

"Over the past several years, the relationship between government and the universities has matured to a point where government no longer needs to appoint six members to the board," Thomson said. "This builds on the protocol agreement signed in 1999 that allows greater input from the universities on government appointments to the board. The changes also recognize and support the strong strategic plans being implemented by the two universities."

Today's announcement is the next step in acknowledging that universities are institutions separate from government. The Minister indicated he is open to exploring further governance changes at the request of the universities.

"Strong governance makes strong universities. This change certainly reflects the priorities in our strategic plan with regard to governance and accountability," University of Regina's board of governors chair Garth Fredrickson said. "It will help us remain responsive to our community, and contribute to our future growth and expansion."

"We understand and appreciate the reasons for this change," University of Saskatchewan president Peter MacKinnon said. "We look forward to a discussion around the sort of board composition that will be in the best interests of Saskatchewan's universities."

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-5609