For Immediate Release

April 11, 2008

Ontario Invests In Campus Improvements At York University
Funding Will Upgrade Facilities for Students and Improve Safety and Accessibility

YORK WEST - Mario Sergio, M.P.P. York West announced today that the Ontario Government is investing $200 million in improvements to university campuses across Ontario to provide students with safe, modern and more accessible learning environments.

York University will receive $18,588,100 of this funding to make improvements to existing buildings, upgrade equipment, renovate facilities, increase energy efficiency and improve security and accessibility.

“York University’s students are our future business and community leaders.  By investing in their future, we are investing in York West and Ontario’s future,” said Mario Sergio, M.P.P.

In support of Ontario EcoSchools, York University will also receive a grant of $500,000 to support the environmental education program for young people. This funding will be used to revise curriculum linked teaching resources, provide outreach activities and offer certification for those teaching ecological literacy.

Ontario’s universities have been experiencing unprecedented growth and need to ensure campuses continue to provide the best learning space possible to support students.  The Ontario government is committed to ensuring high quality postsecondary education is accessible across Ontario.  
 
“Ontario’s skilled and highly educated workforce is a key economic advantage and enhances Ontario’s position as a destination of choice for global investment,” said Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities John Milloy.

This funding is part of the ambitious commitment in the 2008 Budget to expand government investment in postsecondary education and training. 

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For more information contact:
Mario Sergio, M.P.P. York West
(416) 585-7007