City of Lethbridge Council has been preparing the welcome wagon for the arrival of the first class of Southern Alberta Medical Program (SAMP) students that start their educational journey at the University of Lethbridge.
Mayor Blaine Hyggen said building strong connections to the community from day one is crucial in the retention of learners, “so we’re working to support that, however we can.”
Amongst the Council-directed initiatives and activities on offer to SAMP students are memberships to some of Lethbridge’s recreational and cultural facilities.
“Experiencing the art, culture and history of a city are fantastic and immersive ways of getting to know your new home,” noted Galt Museum and Archives Executive Director Sarah Newstead. “There’s something for everyone and summer is a great time to get out and explore what Lethbridge has to offer.”
The program is an innovative partnership between the U of L and the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, established with funding from the Government of Alberta.
According to the City, it’s one of two Rural Medical Education Program training centres in Alberta and will allow students to earn a University of Calgary medical degree, while completing their education in Lethbridge and rural communities across southern Alberta.
Students in the program will train alongside other healthcare professionals, gaining hands-on experience in community and rural settings. The program is designed to enrol learners who are more likely to practice in rural and regional communities after graduation.
“A proven approach to improving physician availability over the long-term,” the City added.
Council’s Strategic Plan prioritizes purposeful partnerships, economic resilience and community wellbeing.
Attracting and retaining healthcare professionals supports multiple strategic goals, including building a healthy and diverse city and strengthening Lethbridge’s role as a regional service and education centre.
“Students come to Lethbridge because of the quality post-secondary education they receive and the community that supports their learning,” Hyggen explained. “We want them to stay here to build a life and use those skills and education in our community. Supporting and warmly welcoming students from day one is a great way to start that journey.”
