“The operations forecast is an integral piece of the continuous conversation between the U of S and the provincial government,” said Provost and Vice-President Academic Brett Fairbairn. “It highlights the progress we have made and the areas in which continued or additional investment from the provincial government will benefit not only the institution but the province as a whole.”

For 2011-12, the U of S is requesting:
* an annual operating grant increase of 4.3 per cent ($11.546 million);
* an annual capital grant of $35 million;
* one-time funding of $38 million for capital projects; and
* an additional one per cent ($2.8 million) to maximize the potential of other opportunities for investment, including emerging capital projects. .

The Ministry of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration will use the operations forecast to inform its request to the Treasury Board for funding as part of the province’s budget, to be released in spring 2011. The U of S Board of Governors will approve the university’s operating and capital budget after the release of the provincial budget in spring 2011. The university’s 2011-12 budget is projected to be balanced.

The operations forecast is based on the multi-year budget framework which is a component of the integrated plan of the university. The document supports the partnership between the U of S and the provincial government as we work together to support quality post-secondary education for the students of Saskatchewan and beyond.

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For more information, visit www.usask.ca/ip to view the operations forecast, or contact:

Teri Rosenfelt, Communications Co-ordinator
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-5659
Email: teri.rosenfelt@usask.ca