In celebration of the University of Manitoba Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences' 100th anniversary, $150,000 in funding is being provided by the province to establish the new Ag Centennial 2006 scholarship, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced today. 

A matching amount will be added to the scholarship program from a fundraising venture by the University of Manitoba with agri-food-related industries.

"Our government is pleased to encourage and assist more students to pursue an education in the agricultural and foods sciences - two areas of study important to the economic future of our province," said Wowchuk.  "By adding to the number of skilled professionals, our province will be better prepared to adapt to the world's ever-changing agri-business and agri-food development needs."

Initially, the scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in the four-year bachelor degree program and the two-year diploma course. 

"We are proud of the history and tradition of the faculty of agricultural and food sciences," said Dr. Emőke Szathmáry, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Manitoba.  "The establishment of this scholarship in recognition of this anniversary is a great tribute and a much-needed enhancement of financial support to students pursuing their studies in agricultural and food sciences."
 
The selection of award recipients will be based on academic achievement.  Complete scholarship criteria will be developed in consultation with the province and the university.

"This is an exciting time for the faculty of agricultural and food sciences and we congratulate them on achieving this outstanding milestone," said Wowchuk.  "Manitobans are fortunate to have access to such high-quality academic programs that prepare them to meet their personal and professional goals as well as the challenges of living in a fast-paced and constantly changing world." 
 
The provincial portion of the scholarship is being provided by a combination of funding from Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives and the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI).

The University of Manitoba faculty of agricultural and food sciences opened in Winnipeg in 1906 with the first agricultural diplomas conferred in 1908 and the first agricultural degrees in 1911.  The faculty offers four-year bachelor degrees providing students with the skills needed for a professional career in the agri-food industry and further studies at the graduate level.  It also offers the two-year agricultural diploma combining academic study with practical activities and projects.