Vancouver Island University (VIU) is getting infrastructure upgrades with $3.4 million in capital funding as part of the B.C. government's investment in public post-secondary infrastructure this year.

The upgrade work will ensure VIU's campus infrastructure and operational systems are performing at optimal levels, which is important to keep B.C.'s campuses in top operating shape. Examples include elevator replacement and fire alarm upgrades.

The university and government also announced today how more than $600,000 in one-time funding - http://ow.ly/dbutB - will be used to offer short-term training in the region. The university expects to create seats in a variety of fields over the coming year, including trades such as welding, boat building and the culinary arts.

B.C. taxpayers are providing over $51 million for Vancouver Island University's operations this year - including an allowance for general infrastructure maintenance - up from $38.8 million in 2001-02. The number of funded student spaces at the university has increased nine per cent since 2003-04.

Almost $42 million in capital investments have been made at VIU since 2001, including a $13.5 million contribution from the B.C. government for the Cowichan Place campus in Duncan.

Quotes:

Ron Cantelon, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum -

"Over the next decade there will be more than a million new job openings in British Columbia. Through investments in post-secondary education, we are working to ensure that mid-Island students have the skills they need to fill those jobs and be successful in their careers."

Ralph Nilson, president, Vancouver Island University -

"VIU appreciates that the government recognizes the importance of funding campus infrastructure to allow for the upgrade of existing facilities and enhancement of safety and security mechanisms to benefit our students, employees and community visitors."

"Additionally, the funding for more seats in targeted trades programs provides the opportunity for a greater number of students to gain the skills necessary to be successful in securing employment and enriching the fabric of our communities."

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