Released on April 27, 2006
International post-secondary students in Saskatchewan will now be able to work off-campus thanks to an Memorandum of Understanding between the Saskatchewan and federal governments."This program will provide opportunities for students to feel more connected in the communities where they study as well as gain valuable work experience," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Atkinson said. "International students bring many social and economic benefits to Saskatchewan. It is hoped that many of them will have the opportunity to stay in the province to continue their careers and raise their families here."
"In a global knowledge-based economy we must enhance the experiences our students have while studying at the University of Saskatchewan. This new program will boost our efforts to actively recruit top students both locally and around the globe. Bringing international students to Saskatchewan helps to create a diverse community – one we will all benefit from, and that will help to revitalize our province," University of Saskatchewan president Peter MacKinnon said.
"This is good news," University of Regina president Robert Hawkins said. "It's good for students, because they will be able to work in the community to meet their needs. And by making their lives easier, it will help our efforts to recruit and retain international students as welcome members of our campus community."
"At SIAST, we're very pleased to help our international students qualify for valuable employment opportunities in the province," SIAST president and CEO Dr. Bob McCulloch said. "The program will not only make SIAST a more attractive place for international students to learn but also help address critical short-term labour market needs in Saskatchewan."
Over 2,000 international students attended post-secondary institutions in Saskatchewan this year, contributing an estimated $39 million to the province's economy.
To be eligible for the program, international students must complete six months of full-time study at a participating post-secondary institution. They must also maintain acceptable grades and full-time student status. They will be able to work a maximum of 20 hours a week during regular classes. To find out more about the program and who is eligible, visit the Immigration link at www.aee.gov.sk.ca.
International students in exchange programs or who are registered in English or French as a second language courses, as well as those who have received scholarships from the Canadian Commonwealth are not eligible.
-30-
For More Information, Contact:
| Dianne Shannon Advanced Education and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0926 |