Instructors from Colombia set to tour Saskatchewan as part of an Education for Employment Project

Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Study tour includes participation in a mine survey camp May 10


May 9, 2016 - Saskatchewan Polytechnic is working with Colombia's National Training Service (SENA) to introduce new and relevant mining curriculum through a three-year Education for Employment Program. Eight mining instructors from Colombia are taking part this week in a mine survey camp to learn advanced surveying techniques, use state-of-the-art GPS equipment and perform projects in the field. The camp is part of a six-day study tour to expose instructors to knowledge and teaching techniques to integrate into their own teaching and curriculum in Colombia.

"The project is transferring Saskatchewan and Canadian know-how and experience in developing relevant labour market training to support mining sector development in Colombia," says Angela Wojcichowsky, director of International Projects at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. "It is tailored to the needs of participating communities and skills training institutions, providing better services to students in small rural mining communities."

The project is beneficial for both participants and Sask Polytech faculty. "It is our hope that further opportunities will be presented to us to work on other mine-related training so that we can benefit by learning what mine practices do exist on a more global basis," says Jamie Hilts, dean of the School of Mining, Energy and Manufacturing and the School of Natural Resources and Build Environment. "By leading this study tour, Sask Polytech is identified as an organization that possesses the expertise, desire and willingness to engage in these types of learning events."

The group will work with faculty on rock mechanics and ground control, mine planning, data analysis and mine regulation, and will participate in GPS and GEO cache exercises to provide a hands-on experience in how technology is used in current mining practices in Saskatchewan.

"The tour will be an excellent opportunity to apply what we have learned," says Cesar Enrique Ramírez López, SENA instructor and study tour participant. "The hands-on learning is a valuable component."

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 27,000 distinct students through applied learning opportunities at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

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