SASKATCHEWAN'S TRAINING SYSTEM UNDER REVIEW

A comprehensive review of the province's training system was announced today. It will focus on ensuring that Saskatchewan's training system is able to meet the growing demands of the provincial economy.

"As a 'have' province that is seeing significant growth in our jobs and our economy, we need to ensure that Saskatchewan students and youth will be able to take full advantage of the opportunities this growth represents," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson said.

Recent reports, such as the Labour Market Trends Report released at the Centennial Summit, show that Saskatchewan's economy is growing faster than the supply of skilled workers in the labour market.

"While we are well positioned to meet the needs of our growing economy through the education and training of a new generation of Saskatchewan residents, we need to make sure our training system remains world class and flexible enough to meet industry needs," Thomson added.

Three people with extensive backgrounds in the training sector have been appointed to the Training System Panel of Review. The panel members are: Douglas McArthur, former Minister of Saskatchewan Education; Lorraine Hanson, former Southeast Regional College Board Chair and Paul Dudgeon, former SIAST Board Chair.

"The Saskatchewan training system has been long known for innovation and excellence," Training System Panel of Review Chair Douglas McArthur said. "This review is part of an on-going effort to ensure that the system continues to meet the needs of employers and learners throughout the province in our ever changing global economic and social environment."

The review is expected to take six months to complete, at which time a final report with recommendations will be submitted to Minister Thomson. Saskatchewan Learning will then develop an action plan with SIAST, Regional Colleges and the Apprenticeship and Trade Commission in response to the recommendations.

"This review is part of our on-going commitment to ensure Saskatchewan is the best place in Canada to live, work, and raise a family," Thomson said.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-5609 Cell: (306) 535-2261