Although funding constraints affected the University of Regina in its budget deliberations this year, the University of Regina's Board of Governors has approved a balanced budget for 2010-2011.

Based on a provincial operating grant of $87.943 million, the loss of $981,000 in funding for distance education initiatives (Technology Enhanced Learning, or TEL) and the cut of half the sustaining capital grant, the overall Government of Saskatchewan grant increase is 3.3 per cent.

Within that constraint, the University has been able to increase spending in areas that focus on people. The University will continue to focus on engaging current students and attracting new students by implementing the UR Guarantee program and will provide increased funding for recruitment. The funding will also cover salaries for faculty and staff, which account for 75 per cent of the University's expenditures.

"The Board of Governors remains committed to presenting a balanced budget that serves the priority needs of students in the delivery of affordable, high quality education," says Susan Barber, Chair of the U of R Board of Governors. "The Board has balanced the needs of students with economic realities, by increasing spending in some areas that are showing growth and potential, while trimming expenses in other areas. Overall, the budget advances the aims of the University's new strategic plan, which focuses on our work, our people and our communities."

The Board approved a balanced operating budget of $150.35 million.

In order to achieve the sixteenth consecutive balanced budget, there will be reductions in discretionary funding for six faculties and most administrative units. Every academic and administrative unit was asked to identify efficiencies through various methods, including not filling some vacant positions, reducing operational costs through such things as streamlining organizational structures, reviewing subscriptions, membership and association fees, and encouraging faculty to apply for more external grants. For example, sound management of utility expenses allows a reduction in the utilities budget of $135,000.

To continue to provide affordable, quality education while maintaining a balanced budget, tuition fees will increase by five per cent for most students. Total revenue from tuition and fees accounts for 30 per cent of the budget.

The U of R is a welcoming, student-focused institution that combines deep-rooted values with innovative thinking, classroom theory with real-world practice, and global ideas with regional needs. With an established reputation for excellence and innovative programs leading to bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees, the U of R aspires to be one of Canada's best comprehensive universities.

For more information please go to the University of Regina's Strategic Plan mâmawohkamâtowin: Our Work. Our People, Our Communities, at http://www.uregina.ca/home/strategic/theplan/.