MOU sets framework for a new partnership between the two polytechnic institutions
May 3, 2019 – Saskatchewan Polytechnic and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today paving the way for future collaboration. Under the agreement, the two polytechnic institutions will share their expertise and resources to enhance programs and best practices in technical training and education.
“As polytechnics, we understand the importance of giving students hands-on experience and opportunities to participate in applied research and other innovative projects connected with industry,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. “By agreeing to work together, both Sask Polytech and SAIT can provide students with enhanced learning experiences.”
”SAIT and Sask Polytech’s collective focus is to ensure our graduates leave our institutions with the skills necessary to make positive and long-lasting impacts in the workplace and immediately contribute to our growing economies,” says Dr. David Ross, SAIT president and CEO. “This agreement will further strengthen the applied-learning nature of our mandates as we continue setting our students up for success.”
A polytechnic education combines the practical approach of a college education and the depth of study of a university program. The competitive advantage of a polytechnic education for graduates is the seamless transition from education to employment, fostered by experiential learning opportunities.
Building on the strengths of Saskatchewan Polytechnic and SAIT, this MOU outlines collaborative opportunities that explore benchmarking key business processes, best practices for Strategic Enrolment Management and Indigenous student and community engagement. A joint task force will be explored to examine curriculum design.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 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.
Established in 1916, SAIT was the first publicly funded technical school of its kind in North America. Today, SAIT is a global leader in applied education, serving 50,000 students annually through more than 100 career programs and 1,300 part-time courses. Action-based learning, solution-focused research and enterprising collaborations with industry partners ensure SAIT students are career-ready when they graduate. SAIT is honoured to be selected by Mediacorp Canada Inc. as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2019.