The Hon. Diane Finley announces $5.5 million contribution to Centre

For Immediate Release: May 16, 2008

Oakville, Ontario

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada visited Sheridan today to announce a funding contribution of $5.5 million to support the Centre for Internationally Trained Individuals.

"Finding a job is one of the most significant challenges facing new immigrants to Canada," said Minister Finley. "This funding will give newcomers the opportunity to develop the skills they need to secure employment. Their success is good for this community and good for Canada as a whole."

The $5.5 million will be used to fund two Enhanced Language Training (ELT) contracts and one Language Instruction for Newcomers (LINC) contract. These programs encompass language training, mentorship opportunities, and career development workshops for internationally-trained individuals.

"This generous contribution from Citizenship and Immigration Canada has made possible the successful launch of the Sheridan Centre for Internationally Trained Individuals,” said Sheridan’s President, Dr. Robert Turner. “The Centre is a reflection of Sheridan’s wide-ranging commitment to facilitate the integration of newcomers into the economy, which is of critical importance both for them and for the communities we serve.”

Located at two campuses in Oakville and in Brampton, the SCITI centres are welcoming places for newcomers to Halton and Peel regions who wish to engage in the larger community by preparing for suitable employment or through education.

“Not only are immigrants invited to upgrade their English language skills, but they are introduced to Sheridan's unique programming for immigrants,” said Joyce Wayne, the Centre’s Director. “It's a great way for those new to the Sheridan family to receive the special support and the advice they deserve."

Students who enroll in an ELT or LINC program through the Centre enjoy the same privileges as other Sheridan students, including access to the library, career centre and computer labs. The Centre is equipped to serve up to 800 newcomers annually at two campuses, one in Oakville and the other in Brampton.

For more information, please contact Joyce Wayne, Director, Sheridan Centre for Internationally Trained Individuals at 905-845-9430, ext. 8191 or via email: joyce.wayne@sheridaninstitute.ca.

Media Contact:

Susan Atkinson
(905) 845-9430, ext. 2096
susan.atkinson@sheridanc.on.ca