News Release Archive
NEWS RELEASE (CNS865) -->> EDUCATION/CULTURE--BILL TO AMALGAMATE DALHOUSIE/TUNS INTRODUCED EDUCATION/CULTURE--BILL TO AMALGAMATE DALHOUSIE/TUNS INTRODUCED ----------------------------------------------------------------- A bill introduced in the Legislature today will strengthen Nova Scotia's position as a leader in advanced technical education and research, while enhancing economic growth, said Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison. Under the bill, the Technical University of Nova Scotia (TUNS) and Dalhousie University will amalgamate April 1, 1997, a move that will position the amalgamated university as a fundamental cornerstone of the economy and future of Nova Scotia. The legislation will give formal effect to the agreement to amalgamate Dalhousie and TUNS that was signed by the universities and province this past July. "The amalgamation will open doors to more students and faculty and position the institution internationally, making it a magnet for business and industry," Mr. Harrison said. "Dal and TUNS have also indicated they are looking at building enrolments to allow more students to take advantage of learning opportunities at this new centre of excellence." Dr. Ted Rhodes, president of TUNS, said, "This amalgamation will enable us to better serve current and future generations of students who wish to pursue advanced technical education in Nova Scotia. TUNS looks forward to an exciting future within the amalgamated new university." Under the legislation TUNS becomes a constituent part of Dalhousie. As part of the amalgamation, TUNS will become a college with a faculty of computer science, faculty of engineering, and faculty of architecture. TUNS, Dalhousie and the province are already partnering to bring new business and industry to Nova Scotia and the amalgamation will act as a springboard to launch other initiatives, Mr. Harrison said. Recently Newbridge Networks, Keane Software, and Cisco Systems have all recognized the benefits of doing business in a province with leading edge technical education and research, he said. Dr. Tom Traves, Dalhousie president, said, "We're already seeing the strategic value of this amalgamation. Together we're more competitive in advanced education and research and can enhance opportunities for students and for the citizens of our province." The Department of Education and Culture will provide $3 million in new funding, over three years, to support the amalgamation. The minister said part of this funding will be used to appoint new professors who bring not only a background of excellence in teaching, but also in fundamental and applied research. They will also assist in attracting additional private and public sector support. Mr. Harrison said students will benefit in a number of ways. Computer science education in Nova Scotia will be strengthened as a result of the amalgamation. In addition, engineering students will now be able to complete their degree in four years instead of the five now required, allowing students to save a year's tuition, and to enter the workplace sooner. It also brings the engineering program in line with all other engineering faculties in North America. Throughout the amalgamated university, students will have access to a wider range of academic offerings. -30- Contact: Catherine MacIsaac 902-424-2795 trp Nov. 27, 1996 - 2:20 p.m.