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Advanced Education and Skills
May 28, 2012

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills:

Grenfell Campus Expansion Enhancing Education and Supporting Growth

Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today to inform Honourable Members of how the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is demonstrating its ongoing commitment to post-secondary education.

To date, the Provincial Government investment in post-secondary education has grown from $228 million in 2003-04 to $528.4 million in 2012-13 – an increase of 130.8 per cent. Through Budget 2012: People and Prosperity, this government continues to make strategic investments to support post-secondary infrastructure, including $40.8 million to Memorial University for the construction of new student residences, creating at least 200 residence beds at Grenfell Campus and 500 residence beds in St. John’s. In 2012, tuition fees at Memorial and College of the North Atlantic are among the lowest in Canada, and since 2005 this government has invested $183 million for a tuition freeze to keep it that way.

The purpose of these and other investments is simple – to give people access to the best possible education – an investment in their future success and prosperity. On Friday, we had the great pleasure of seeing how ongoing investments in post-secondary education are enhancing students’ educational experiences and helping to create opportunities to support long-term economic growth. I was joined by my provincial colleagues to take part in the official opening of Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus Arts and Science building extension, which was funded by an investment of $19.2 million from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and $7.9 million by the Federal Government through its Knowledge Infrastructure Program.

Mr. Speaker, this facility is an impressive addition to the Grenfell Campus. The building provides research, computer and meeting spaces, a state-of-the-art telescope, laboratories and auditorium.

The extension will be used by a variety of academic disciplines including chemistry, physics, earth science and biology. The expansion also provides for faculty and staff offices, as well as dedicated study areas for students.

Mr. Speaker, just as Sir Wilfred Grenfell encouraged others to believe in themselves and strive for excellence, the Arts and Science Building extension will help foster incredible research opportunities and enrich the education experience of students. I ask all Honourable Members to join me in congratulating Memorial University on this outstanding addition to the Grenfell campus.

Thank you.

2012 05 28             1:45 p.m.

 
 
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