Ontario is investing $23 million in a new clinical learning building at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), a one-of-a-kind institution that uniquely contributes to research in the fields of animal and human health and food security.

Founded in 1862, the OVC was opened to train people who were needed to care for horses in Upper Canada. In addition to providing training for future veterinarians, the OVC cares for over 16,000 animals per year.

The investment will use technology to improve training, safety and biosecurity for veterinarians and researchers. It will also contribute to a new facility with modern and flexible classrooms, allowing computer-based case studies, patient simulators and medical communications labs for a hands-on learning experience. In addition, the college plans to renovate the existing veterinary hospital to create more space for advanced surgery and anaesthesia. In total, OVC students will have access to close to 70,000 square feet of new and renovated space.

“Our government understands that providing access to high-quality education and training is critical to building bright futures for Ontario students, and to helping our province compete and win in the knowledge economy,” said Reza Moridi, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. “That’s why I’m particularly proud of our investment in the Ontario Veterinary College, which will give students access to the state-of-the-art facilities they need to prepare for successful careers as practitioners and researchers. Future graduates will provide a valuable return on the province’s investment, by getting good jobs and applying their skills to make an impact on key sectors of our economy and our communities.”