CONSTRUCTION BEGINS FOR U OF S ACADEMIC HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE

The sod has been turned for the University of Saskatchewan's new Academic Health Sciences Centre, with full support from the Government of Saskatchewan. The quarter billion dollar project will enable a more integrated and multi-disciplined health care model for Saskatchewan.

"Patient-centred health care will be enhanced by the integration of multi-disciplinary education and research with health services," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Warren McCall said. "The new approach to health sciences enabled by the Academic Health Sciences Centre will strengthen the province's ability to recruit and retain health professionals, faculty and students."

"The Academic Health Sciences Centre project will enable unique academic, clinical and scientific collaborations in medicine, veterinary medicine, kinesiology, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and nutrition, physical therapy and public health, all with a view to developing a vibrant, modern health care system," University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon said. "This project reflects a shared vision between the University and the Government of Saskatchewan for integrated teaching and research which will position the University of Saskatchewan as a leader in the health sciences."

The Government of Saskatchewan committed to this project in 2003. In 2005 the Government invested $100 million for the project, the single largest capital contribution by the province to a university. Now phase one of the project is underway. The Government of Saskatchewan and the University also signed a Memorandum of Understanding that spells out the roles and responsibilities of both parties.

The new Academic Health Sciences Centre is a key element in meeting the Government of Saskatchewan's goal of providing patient-centred health services and research. The government's investment will ensure that health sciences graduates continue to be trained in a top-quality environment that includes the leading edge of medical research. This project will directly benefit all Saskatchewan people.

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For more information, contact:

Terry White
Advanced Education and Employment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7791
Email: twhite@sasked.gov.sk.ca

Patty Martin
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-966-6919
Email: patty.martin@usask.ca