University still offers extension

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Published: March 6, 2008

The name has changed but the programs remain largely the same at the University of Saskatchewan’s Centre for Continuing Education.

Once known as the extension division, it now includes the language centre, distance learning, off campus programs and professional development and community education.

Bob Cram, the centre’s executive director, said the biggest change since the name change in mid 2007 is cost recovery.

“There is a greater imperative to generate more revenue than we did in the past,” he said.

The centre continues to offer its 19-year-old master gardener program, but is less likely to organize and help at educational conferences, he said.

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“The program is still there and we are still delivering it and it’s still reaching out to rural areas,” said Cram.

He said the new title better reflects the scope and diversity of its programming in the RJD Williams building in Saskatoon. The centre employs about 70 regular staff and hires instructors to conduct workshops.

Demand for agricultural programs leans heavily toward classes that will help diversify the farm operation, Cram said, citing a strong use of the federal government’s Canadian Agriculture Skills Service funding initiative. That skills program teaches farmers and their spouses business management, accounting, finance, human resource management and skills development for the farm, for other employment or training to start a new business.

A popular part of the centre’s work is teaching English as a second language to hundreds of students.

Support for business through professional development and customized training is also provided. Kari Nicolas, manager of technology enhanced learning at the centre, noted as an example Saskatchewan Crop Insurance needing field training for its employees.

The certified crop science program provides education in safety, biotechnology, integrated pest management and stewardship.

The certified crop science consultant program is a national certification standard for those working with farm chemicals, while investigative agronomy targets people helping farmers diagnose plant problems.

The prairie horticulture certificate offers at-home study programs for those interested in growing fruits and vegetables or working in greenhouses, nurseries and landscaping businesses.

Nicolas called the master gardener program a mix of science and art that is well attended by both avid gardeners and professional horticulturalists. “Ours offers the flexibility of doing it in the evenings at home,” she said.

That’s especially important to those living in remote locations, such as northern and rural Saskatchewan.

The centre collaborates with provincial community colleges to help deliver its programs and supports students by providing CDs where internet connections are poor or impossible.

About the author

Karen Morrison

Saskatoon newsroom

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