Funding for a new Trades and Technology Centre for Parkland College in Yorkton could get mid-year funding, but there are hurdles to overcome if that is to happen.
That was the message those attending a joint luncheon of the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce and Yorkton Rotary heard from Don Morgan, Saskatchewan Minister of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration.
Morgan said the province recognizes the role of an institution such as Parkland College, and also the local needs for a new training centre. He said the college "makes it possible for Yorkton students to learn close to home," he said.
Morgan also commented that local college representative have done a good job of making their case for a new facility to the province, going as far as to offer five options the government can chose from to best fit its needs.
Morgan said with increase in technology to offer distance education, online discussion boards, web-based class offerings, and video conferencing, regional colleges will play an expanded role.
While recognizing the local college has role to play, Morgan did not say funding was assured, or imminent. He did say funding is usually part of budget deliberations, but that it could also come at mid-year.
For mid-year funding to occur Morgan noted the province's revenue from potash and oil and gas must be on target, and with oil currently in the $82-$83 dollar a barrel range when the budget was for high $90s prices, that will make funding harder to obtain this year.
In general terms Morgan said post secondary education is an important part of maintaining the economic momentum being enjoyed in the province. He said over the past half decade there has been "significant growth in the psychology of Saskatchewan people," adding there is an "excitement about what's happening today and into the future."
Morgan said as it stands Saskatchewan looks to lead provinces in economic growth, and that creates "real opportunity for people in all regions of our province."
To help people realize those opportunities Morgan said there is a need for post secondary opportunities in the province.
With that in mind Morgan said the province has made significant investment in scholarships and similar programming to help Saskatchewan people access post secondary education, and will continue to do so. Programs include a $500 a year program for up to four years for all students advancing education past high school and up to $20,000 in rebate in tuition if a student stays in the province seven years after graduating a post secondary course.
