Yukon Research Centre of Excellence Grand Opening

Yukon Research Centre of Excellence Celebrates Opening

The doors to the Yukon Research Centre of Excellence were officially opened today by Premier Dennis Fentie, Yukon College Board Chair Clarence Timmons and Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Andy Carvill.

“This opening represents a milestone in establishing Yukon’s commitment to the growing northern-based knowledge sector,” Fentie said. “Yukoners are well aware of our need to adapt to changes in climate, environment and economy. The Yukon Research Centre of Excellence initiative, which we committed to in 2006, is well represented by talented individuals and dedicated partners, to place Yukon in the forefront of research and innovation in these areas.”

“Yukon Research Centre of Excellence consolidates and focuses the strengths of Yukon’s professional innovators and researchers and provides the platform for synergy and growth of the territory’s knowledge-based economy,” Yukon College president Terry Weninger said. “While the Centre is very new, the positive effects of its professional approach to research and innovation are already benefiting Yukon, in accordance with our strategic plan.”

“We are jointly developing the Research Centre of Excellence based on equality, creativity and opportunity,” Carvill said. “The scientific portion is based here at Yukon College, and the traditional knowledge and community-based knowledge portion will be based at the Council of Yukon First Nations. It is a unique opportunity and one that we look forward to developing in the coming years.”

The Government of Yukon has committed $452,000 to Yukon College during 2009-10 to support the start-up of the centre.