Facilities and infrastructure at Royal Roads University are being upgraded and modernized, thanks to $2.7 million in capital funding that is part of government's investment in public post-secondary infrastructure this year.

The investment will ensure that the university can improve campus roadways and will centralize and modernize the existing fire alarm system.

B.C. taxpayers are providing $17.4 million for Royal Roads' operations this year - including an allowance for general infrastructure maintenance - up from $8.9 million in 2001-02. The number of funded student spaces at the university has increased seven per cent over that time. Almost $17 million in capital investments have been made at Royal Roads since 2001, including construction of the new Learning and Innovation Centre.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head -

"Under the BC Jobs Plan, we're working to grow B.C.'s economy. Our investment in Royal Roads will help provide students with the skills they need to reach their goals and meet the demands of B.C.'s employers."

Dr. Allan Cahoon, president and vice-chancellor, Royal Roads University -

"Royal Roads appreciates the provincial government's support for these infrastructure projects. The challenge of having a campus on a national historic site is that infrastructure improvements are ongoing. These funds will allow us to continue to address our priority areas and will benefit our students, campus community and visitors."

Funding for B.C. post-secondary institutions:

• $23.7 billion - amount of money invested in post-secondary education in B.C. since 2001.
• 57 per cent - the increase in total operating funding since 2001 across the university sector, along with a 26 per cent increase in total operating funding for the college and institute sector since 2001.
• $1.9 billion - the amount invested in support of post-secondary education this year.
• $10,090 - amount per full-time student funded by the provincial government, up from $8,440 in 2001-02.

Learn More:

BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400