Government of Saskatchewan Western Red Lilies
Executive Council - Media Services
Legislative Building - Regina, Canada S4S 0B3 - (306) 787-6281

News Release


November 22, 2006

Advanced Education and Employment - 839

PRAIRIE WEST COLLEGE REGION TO RECEIVE 144 TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

As part of the Province's $52.6 million training announcement, another 144
citizens in the Prairie West Regional College region will have an opportunity
to receive the training they need.

In total, 2,584 new opportunities have been created in Saskatchewan.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is delivering on its promise to expand
training opportunities to meet the demands of our province's vibrant and
growing industries and businesses," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "These
opportunities provide young people in every corner of the province with an
even brighter future – and more opportunities to learn, grow and prosper right
here at home."

The total training investment in the West-Central region is worth $451,800,
which will provide for the following:

• A new 14 seat Licensed Practical Nursing Program in Biggar;

• New equipment to provide 100 Safety Training opportunities to support the
energy sector in the Kindersley region;

• A 10 seat Production Line Welding program in Warman; and

• Bridging to Employment or further training for up to 20 learners in
Rosetown.

"From oilfield training in western Saskatchewan to diamond driller training in
the north, we're creating the opportunities our young people need where they
need them," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Pat Atkinson said.
"We're drawing a direct path between the learner and the job, and creating the
training opportunities necessary to bring the two together."

"Prairie West Regional College is pleased to work with business, labour, and
government to build our regional economy," Prairie West College CEO Bruce
Probert said. "Our region has seen a major increase in oil and gas activity,
and a high need for skilled trades people and health care workers. This
significant investment allows us to respond to labour market needs by
providing our employers with the workers they need to grow."

The $52.6 million total represents the greatest investment in training in the
Province's history.

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For More Information, Contact:
Christopher Jones-Bonk
Advanced Education and Employment
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3106
Bruce Probert
Prairie West Regional College
Biggar
Phone: 306-948-3363


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