January 12, 2016
Province Announces $25 Million for New and Upgraded Science Labs at High Schools and Universities
More than 40 science laboratories in high schools and universities across Manitoba will be upgraded to support cutting edge research and skills training, including a newly renovated lab at Fort Richmond Collegiate, as part of phase three of the province’s science action plan, Education and Advanced Learning Minister James Allum announced today.
“We’re investing in high school and university science labs to make sure the scientists of tomorrow learn the techniques they need to get good jobs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields,” said Minister Allum. “These targeted investments will help high school students get excited about science so they can bring their skills into university and the workplace.”
In 2011, the province launched the Action Plan for Science Educationthat included funding for science classroom renewal, teacher training and new strategic partnerships to promote the province’s science programming, Minister Allum added. Today’s announcement invests $20 million in new and renovated high school labs, as well as $5 million to ensure that students pursuing science and technology programs at university train on industry-standard equipment and in world-class facilities.
“One of the hallmarks of a strong science program is the ability to nurture students’ curiosity, and modern labs with current equipment provide an excellent environment to foster interest and instill a love for learning. This leads to engagement, skill development, higher thinking order and greater student success and graduation,” said Ted Fransen, superintendent, Pembina Trails School Division. “These new labs will play an important role in achieving those goals and we’re very pleased to be receiving this support from the Manitoba government.”
Under the Action Plan for Science Education, the province has invested $25 million to upgrade 66 biology, chemistry and physics labs in high schools throughout the province, Minister Allum said. With today’s announcement, more than $45 million will have been committed to upgrade over 110 science labs in Manitoba high schools, along with the new supports for university science labs.
“By ensuring state-of-the-art science laboratories in its high schools and postsecondary institutions, Manitoba will produce innovative research that opens up new scientific horizons, improves health care and drives industrial development,” said Gabor Csepregi, president, Universite de Saint-Boniface. “At the Université de Saint-Boniface, high-quality laboratories also inspire passionate teaching and make our students see learning and research as a joyful adventure.”
“We are committed to investing in our students because we know that parents want their children to get a good education that gives them the skills they need to get a good job here in Manitoba,” Minister Allum said. “Today’s announcement builds on a record of investing in our schools.”
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