NEW PROGRAM TO ASSIST FIRST NATIONS AND METIS STUDENTS AT THE U OF S

Crown Investments Corporation (CIC) and the University of Saskatchewan have established a program to help First Nations and Métis students prepare for careers in the maths and sciences.

The Mathematics and Science Enrichment Program will evaluate students' needs, provide courses to upgrade academic skills in the maths and sciences, and offer services such as workshops in research and exam writing, and cultural support from elders. The program will assist up to 50 aboriginal students each year.

"We are pleased to form this partnership with the University of Saskatchewan to help aboriginal students pursue careers in the maths and sciences," Crown Management Board Minister Pat Atkinson said. "First Nations and Métis people are a growing segment of Saskatchewan's population, so we need to ensure that they have opportunities for advanced education that will lead to fulfilling careers in our Crown corporations and in other companies in our province. This is part of our government's commitment to building a bright future for our youth and aboriginal people right here at home."

The Math and Science Enrichment Program is part of a five-year, $20 million investment announced by CIC in 2003 to create more opportunities for youth and aboriginal participation in Saskatchewan's Crown corporations. Statistics show that half of the current Crown employees, or about 5,000 people, will retire by 2017. The Crowns will need to replace them with educated, skilled workers.

"We are very happy to see the commitment by CIC to contribute funding in a way that truly aids our students," University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon said. "It will present marvelous opportunities for our aboriginal students. The Math and Science Enrichment program will help students develop personal and professional skills that ease the transition from university to career. It will help shape their careers and enable them to compete effectively in the global economy."

CIC will provide $1 million to the program over the next five years to fund a program co-ordinator, instructors, elders, skills development workshops, and internships. The University of Saskatchewan will provide in-kind contributions and direct investment.

Program development and recruitment will begin immediately. The first students will enter the program in the 2005 fall semester.

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For More Information, Contact:

Karen Schmidt CIC Regina Phone: (306) 787-5889	Tina Merrifield University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306) 966-2213
Dave Cowan University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306)966-5214