FRANCAIS

April 21, 2004

Advanced Education and Training Minister Diane McGifford today announced funding of $350,000 for Manitoba’s first graduate scholarship program at the University of Manitoba, the first step toward a $2 million commitment to post-secondary graduate students.

“This scholarship, the first of its kind in Manitoba, will support research-based graduate studies that will help attract and retain the highest quality students from within and outside the province,” McGifford said.

The funding provides $260,000 for 15 master’s scholarships and $90,000 for 12 doctoral scholarships. Candidates in a master’s program will be eligible for awards of $15,000 per year for two years, and doctoral students will be eligible for $7,500 per year for two years. The doctoral scholarships will supplement the University of Manitoba’s current graduate funding of $16,000 per year.

Graduate students from several faculties will benefit from this new investment, and a portion of the funds will be allocated to support agriculture research.

Dr. Emoke Szathmary, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Manitoba, said, “I am delighted that our government recognizes the importance of graduate education to our province, and has chosen to provide graduate scholarships to outstanding students. Their recognition is as important as is the provision of financial support, to both encourage students to do their best and to complete advanced studies.”

McGifford noted the graduate fellowship is in keeping with the Manitoba government’s continuing commitment to post-secondary education, pointing out that Budget 2004 included a 1.8 per cent increase in grants to institutions, $3.4 million in property tax relief for universities, almost $13 million in tuition rebate grants, and a more than $4 million increase in the College Expansion Initiative.

The minister noted the province’s $50 million contribution to the university’s Building on Strengths Campaign, the largest post-secondary capital campaign in Manitoba history, which has helped to leverage an additional $187 million in private sector support.

“This new scholarship demonstrates the value this government places on post-secondary education,” McGifford said. “It is designed to help keep Manitoba universities competitive, to contribute to the long-term economic growth and prosperity of the province, and to foster the scientific advancements and exchange of ideas that are vital to a successful and vibrant society.”

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