Regina school military training program cancelled

A controversial new military training program offered in Regina high schools is cancelled for now.

The primary reserve co-op program, started last year, had been offered by both Regina Public and Catholic high schools to students in Grade 11 and 12.

Nine students graduated from the program, receiving about $2,000 and two high school credits for completing basic military training.

It was created through an agreement between 38 Canadian Brigade Group, the provincial government and the two Regina school division.

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Proponents said it would help young people become better citizens, but opponents expressed concerns it represented a militarization of the school system.

Students were required to join the reserves, but were not required to continue their affiliation with the Canadian Forces after completing it.

The program has been cancelled due to low enrolment, Canadian Armed Forces officials told CBC News.

Saskatchewan peace groups who protested when the program was first introduced are now calling on it to be permanently cancelled.