Sask. government, university officials hope new funding will increase supply of rural veterinarians
The provincial government says it will subsidize five new spots for rural students at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan.
University and government officials hosted a news conference on campus Friday morning. They said the move is part of a $13-million funding commitment. That represents a $667,000 increase over last year.
Among other programs, that funding will pay for 25 overall training seats for Saskatchewan students. Five of them will be designated for those studying in rural areas.
"So that's the kind of incentives we can do. Hopefully the students will take that opportunity and practice in rural Saskatchewan. It's a great way of life, a rural way of life and a great opportunity," Agriculture Minister David Marit said.
Marit said it's difficult to retain veterinarians in rural Saskatchewan, particularly those specializing in large animals.
"We want to see our livestock sector grow. In order to grow, we've got to have the professional services there as well. And vets are a big part of that," he said.
There will also be up to $20,000 in student loan forgiveness for veterinarians who choose to set up practice in rural Saskatchewam. Marit hopes these and other measures will help increase the supply of veterinarians in rural areas.
U of S president Peter Stoicheff thanked the provincial government for increasing funding for the university this year. He also applauded the internationally-recognized work done by members of the college in recent years.
"This is a flagship college for the university, for the province and for the country," Stoicheff said.
