Government of Alberta commits over $60M to UCVM expansion

The Government of Alberta is investing over $67 million over three years to support enrolment and infrastructure expansions at the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM).

“Agriculture is a key pillar of Alberta’s economy. That’s why it is so critical we ensure that livestock have access to the veterinary care that keeps them healthy. Through Alberta’s Recovery Plan and the Alberta at Work Initiative, we are addressing the shortage of veterinarians, and that our furry companions have the care they need, when they need it.” 

Premier Jason Kenney

Of the funding, $8.4M will go towards enrolment — increasing existing seat numbers by 50. And $59M will support the construction of new infrastructure “to accommodate future learners.”

Veterinarian, cattle producer and Chair, ABP, Dr. Melanie Wowk joined us to talk about the global veterinary shortage in our inaugural episode of The Bovine — a podcast by Alberta Beef Producers.

“This announcement marks a historic moment for veterinary medicine, animal care and the future economy of Alberta,” said Dr. Daren Mandrusiak, President, Alberta Veterinary Medical Association. “The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association thanks the Alberta government for this generational investment that allows critically needed expansion of the world-class veterinary education at the UCVM and helps to address the significant labour gaps facing our veterinary profession. Alberta will be well served by this new and expanded generation of veterinarians.”

The funding is part of the provincial government’s ‘Alberta at Work Initiative.’

LIVE: Announcing an expansion of the veterinary medicine program at the University of Calgary https://t.co/H5lq9b6T4i

— Jason Kenney 🇺🇦 (@jkenney) May 10, 2022

Funding will also help build a new facility at Spyhill campus, add teaching capacity to WA Ranches, and make enhancements to Foothills campus.

— U Calgary (@UCalgary) May 10, 2022

⁦Pleased to welcome ⁦Premier ⁦@jkenney⁩ ⁦@demetriosnAB⁩ ⁦@NateHornerAB⁩ to ⁦@ucalgaryvetmed⁩ to announce funding to double enrolment in veterinary medicine at UCalgary. ⁦@abvma⁩ #ableg #abpse pic.twitter.com/B8hwZCNd3T

— John Alho (@JohnGAlho) May 10, 2022