Putting Our Students First

As part of the Conservative Government’s renewal activities, federal government departments have been asked to review all of their programs in order to realign their activities with government priorities. Health Canada has examined each element of expenditure, and in doing so, made the decision to focus solely on health-related initiatives that fall within its mandate.

Given that funding for university-level education programs falls outside of Health Canada's mandate, and that the National School of Dental Therapy (NSDT) is the only such institution in Canada receiving direct federal funding, Health Canada has thus decided instead to re-invest $600,000 annually from the
$2 million in bursaries, scholarships, or other direct supports to Aboriginal students pursuing dental studies, including dental therapy, dentistry, and dental hygiene.

Direct funding to the NSDT will discontinue in June 2011, which will allow currently enrolled students to complete their course of study.  We are hopeful that the NSDT will be able to make the transition to other funding arrangements.

It is my understanding the NSDT is exploring collaboration with other organizations such as the territorial governments and universities on dental therapy training for Aboriginal students.  The School is also engaged in a number of transition activities such as a new partnership with the University of Saskatchewan's dental school, which includes a contract for the School to provide weekly clinical work to the University and to continue to deliver field clinics and services in remote communities.

It is also my understanding the NSDT does not possess reciprocal transfer credit arrangements with any other post-secondary institution within our province, or in Canada.  This, I believe, limits NSDT students from furthering their studies in dental services.  Hence, a future provincial funding arrangement for the NSDT, possibly through SIAST or the University of Saskatchewan I believe will be in the interest of NSDT students.

Court proceedings

'The impact of this trauma will echo for generations': court case surrounding La Ronge woman's death reaches conclusion

14h ago

Going Global

P.A.'s Zablocki named to Team Canada for U18 Women's World Championships

14h ago

Election 2024

Birch Hills staff won't share election decision

15h ago

I am confident that the Conservative Government’s focus on respecting provincial jurisdiction within the provision of post-secondary education will be met with much support within the Government of Saskatchewan.

I look forward to working with Minister Norris on this file in the best interest of Saskatchewan’s aboriginal and non-aboriginal post-secondary students.

Sincerely,

Randy Hoback, MP
Prince Albert