Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. (PotashCorp) today announced a $1.225 million matching gift commitment to support the construction of the new Parkland College Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. The centre will offer a host of industrial training programs to graduating up to 350 students per year.

“At PotashCorp, we understand that a skilled labour force is key to a sustainable future,” said Lee Knafelc, Vice-President of Human Resources and Administration at PotashCorp. “For communities across Saskatchewan, and companies like ours, a new generation of skilled talent will be needed to fuel growth and prosperity.”

Parkland College is the region’s leading post-secondary education institution with its largest campus in the City of Yorkton. The region is experiencing unprecedented economic growth and significant skilled labour shortages. Projections forecast that the region will require 1,000 additional skilled labourers and tradespeople every year, for the next 10 years, to meet market demand.

“This important gift comes at a critical time in the development of the Trades and Technology Centre, and provides the college and the region with significant momentum. We are grateful to PotashCorp for its vision, encouragement, and leadership,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers.

The new 24,550 square foot facility will house a power engineering lab, a science and technology lab, technology-enhanced classrooms and an 8,000 square foot industrial trades shop. From this hub, Parkland College will engage rural students and youth on each of the 12 First Nations in the region.

“Parkland has been very successful in engaging First Nations and rural students across the region. We believe that this centre will be an attractive option for young people who want to learn closer to home,” said Dr. Fay Myers.

PotashCorp will match up to $1.225 million in contributions toward the expansion until December 31, 2012, helping organizers reach their goal for the community portion of the capital campaign. To recognize its support, the centre’s Industrial Training Wing will be named in honour of PotashCorp and will house shops and training spaces required to deliver apprenticeship and technical training.

As the world’s largest crop nutrient company, PotashCorp plays an integral role in global food production. The company produces the three essential nutrients required to help farmers grow healthier, more abundant crops. With global population rising and diets improving in developing countries, crop nutrients such as potash, phosphates and nitrogen offer a responsible and practical solution to help produce the food we need, from the land we have.

For further information please contact:

PotashCorp Parkland College
Rhonda Speiss
Manager, Corporate Philanthropy
Phone: (306) 933-8544
Email Corporate Philanthropy Dr. Fay Myers
President, Parkland College
Phone: (306) 728-6588
Email: f.myers@parklandcollege.sk.ca