Canadian Mennonite University Hosts Grand Opening of New Science Laboratory
Premier Greg Selinger, MP Steven Fletcher, Minister of State for Democratic Reform, and Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) President Dr. Gerald Gerbrandt today proudly opened CMU’s new science laboratory that will benefit students for many years to come.
“This advanced laboratory setting will strengthen CMU’s science programs and support high-quality instruction for students,” said Premier Selinger. “Our government is pleased to be part of the ongoing co-operation with the federal government under the Knowledge Infrastructure Program.”
Canadian Mennonite University received a total of $301,500 from the federal government under the federal and provincial partnership agreement in the Knowledge Infrastructure Program (KIP), with Manitoba providing an additional $150,800. CMU held a successful fundraising campaign for the project and raised over $350,000 in support from private donors towards the facility.
CMU students now have a new 1,200-square-foot teaching laboratory, a preparatory lab and improved storage facilities. The specialized space will allow the institution to grow its course offerings and teach advanced-level science courses with lab components in biochemistry, organic chemistry, physics, genetics, cell biology and microbiology.
“Our government’s investment in post-secondary infrastructure has given our students and researchers the tools they need to be global leaders in their fields and pursue world-class excellence,” said Minister Fletcher. “Our government’s investments in the knowledge economy strengthen Canada’s position as a world leader in science and technology.”
“Increasingly, students are coming to CMU looking to build an academic base in the sciences for such professional fields as nursing, agriculture, medicine, pharmacy, engineering and education. We are grateful for the support of our federal and provincial governments and private donors to build this new lab, which considerably strengthens CMU’s capacity to deliver a broadly-based, Christian liberal-arts education. Students seeking a future in science will have a strong foundation to begin that journey,” said Gerbrandt.
The KIP investment is part of the federal government’s two-year, $2-billion plan to repair and expand research and educational facilities at Canadian colleges and universities. Since its inception last year, KIP has helped to generate the advanced technological infrastructure needed to keep Canada’s colleges and universities at the forefront of scientific advancement.