STUDENT JOBS IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE

Released on June 28, 2001

More than 200 Saskatchewan college and university students are enhancing

their skills and preparing for their futures by working in the provincial

public service this summer.



Already, 208 students have started work under the Centennial Summer Student

Employment Program (CSSE) in areas such as research, pharmacy, engineering,

computer science, accounting, ecology and communications. More will be

hired over the next two months and during the fall.



"This program offers a wide variety of opportunities and connects our youth

to career opportunities and exciting futures right here in the Saskatchewan

public service," Minister Responsible for the Public Service Commission

Joanne Crofford said. Crofford is also Minister of Culture, Youth and

Recreation, the department administering the program.



Students are working with 20 government departments and agencies, including

Health, Environment and Resource Management, Economic and Co-operative

Development, Highways and Transportation, Agriculture and Food,

Saskatchewan Property Management Corporation, Saskatchewan Research Council

and the Saskatchewan Wetland Corporation.



"I've never really worked in an office before," Maryann McDonald said.

McDonald is one of two computer science students hired by the Information

Technology Office to work on the government's electronic forms initiative.

"We've learned how to do software forms flow, which is totally new and

we're working with every department. Having a chance to do this is really

good experience."



"Employment with Saskatchewan Health has given me a unique opportunity to

broaden my understanding and knowledge of the Saskatchewan Prescription

Drug Plan," pharmacy student James Davis said. "I have been communicating

with pharmacists, collecting and analyzing data and learning about

prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Consequently, I have more

confidence and new skills that will be applicable in my education and

future career."



In addition to the students hired under the CSSE Program, 422 students have

been hired under the existing summer student program co-ordinated by the

Public Service Commission. This program provides seasonal work in parks,

government offices and highway maintenance crews.



More information about public service programs for students is available on

the PSC's web site at http://www.gov.sk.ca/psc/jobs/summer.



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For more information, contact:



Jocelyn Souliere Karyn Mossing

Public Service Commission Culture, Youth and Recreation

Regina Regina

Phone: (306) 787-7566 Phone: (306) 787-4967