INCREASED FUNDING FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE SERVICES IN SASKATCHEWAN

Newcomers to Saskatchewan will soon have more opportunities to access community-based English language training thanks to the Government of Saskatchewan's investment of $1.56 million.

The continued success of the province's immigration strategy has resulted in a growing demand for employment and language support services in both urban and rural Saskatchewan. Last year, the province issued a record 1,255 nominations, and this number is expected to reach 1,500 this year.

"As we continue opening our doors to newcomers from around the world through our highly successful nominee program, we want everyone who chooses Saskatchewan to build futures for themselves and their families here," Minister responsible for Immigration Pat Atkinson said. "By providing this funding to organizations across the province, we are working to ensure that immigrants can access the language training they need where they need it."

This funding is being divided between 15 service provider organizations. It will develop the province's capacity to provide flexible, integrated, community-based language training to provincial nominees and their family members. Other immigrants whose language training needs are not being met through existing programs such as Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) will also benefit from this funding.

Specifically, these organizations will provide language services that will assist immigrants in three key areas:

• Developing the English language skills necessary to find and keep employment commensurate with their skills, abilities and training acquired overseas; 
• Developing the English technical vocabulary needed to pass regulatory licensing and certification examinations that may be required to work in Saskatchewan; and
• Providing functional English language skill-building opportunities and supports so that newcomers are better able to interact comfortably within their communities.

"The Global Gathering Place welcomes the opportunity to work in partnership with the Saskatchewan Government," Global Gathering Place executive director Belma Podrug said. "With an increase in immigration to this province, programs for English language training are vital for immigrants with low or no language skills to settle successfully. By providing our clients with the opportunity to learn and practice English, this funding will improve their quality of life in Saskatchewan, and enable them to fully participate in Canadian society."

For more information on how to apply for funding, visit our website at www.immigration.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Jill Tzupa
Advanced Education and Employment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1331
Email: jtzupa@sasked.gov.sk.ca

Keith Landry
Advanced Education and Employment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8039
Email: klandry@sasked.gov.sk.ca