Saskatchewan Polytechnic kicks off Intercultural Week on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
March 21, 2016 - Coinciding with the United Nations' International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination today, Saskatchewan Polytechnic is launching its first annual Intercultural Week. Between March 21 and 24, more than 20 events will be taking place at five Sask Polytech locations across the province to celebrate and honour the cultural diversity amongst our students, faculty and staff at Sask Polytech.
"Sask Polytech continues to attract staff, faculty and students from all over the world," says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO. "The result is a diverse community that nurtures new ideas and perspectives and enhances experiences. Intercultural Week is an opportunity for Sask Polytech to reaffirm our commitment to eliminate all forms of discrimination and create a community where students, faculty and staff can learn and work in dignity, equality and peace."
Students from diverse backgrounds are an integral part of the Sask Polytech community. In 2015-2016, Sask Polytech welcomed approximately 400 international students to our four campuses. More than 18 per cent of the student population identifies as Aboriginal students. By celebrating Intercultural Week, we can help facilitate the transfer of knowledge and experiences among diverse communities and foster safe and respectful learning spaces.
"It is the responsibility of the entire organization to ensure our students have an equal opportunity to succeed in their educational and career goals," says Tobi Strohan, associate vice-president of Student Services. "International and Aboriginal students enrich all aspects of our institutional culture. It is our social and collective responsibility to ensure they feel welcomed on their paths to success."
Events throughout the week will vary, depending on the location and include ethnic meals, film screenings, talks and a Sask Polytech Folk Fest.
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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