Sask. Polytech Abandons Plan to Relocate Students to New Cities

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recently announced a significant change regarding its electronic systems engineering technology (ESET) program. The institution has decided that second-year students currently studying in Saskatoon will not need to relocate to continue their education. This reversal comes after concerns were raised about the challenges posed by an earlier requirement mandating relocation to Regina.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Decision to Abandon Relocation Plan

The announcement on Friday reassured students who faced difficult choices about relocating to complete their studies. The school’s administration will finalize the details concerning where the program will be delivered.

Concerns from Students

In January, the students learned through email that their second-year courses would exclusively be held in Regina. This news led many to fear they would have to choose between moving across the province or abandoning their studies altogether.

• Initial Requirement: Move to Regina for second-year courses.
• Student Responses: Concern over relocation raised issues of trust in administration.
• Encouraging Reversal: Students felt heard with the recent announcement.

Reasons Behind the Change

Saskatchewan Polytechnic cited necessary academic program adjustments to address a financial shortfall. These changes relate specifically to federal immigration policies impacting the program’s sustainability. The administration affirmed that the program’s relocation, initially planned for 2027, aims to keep graduates aligned with emerging technologies.

Impact on Future Plans

Due to the transition process, applications for the Saskatoon campus for fall 2026 will not be accepted. First-year student Alex Loewen expressed relief over the new development, viewing it as a step in the right direction. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a location that meets the technical requirements of the program.

• Equipment Needs: Specialized gear vital for hands-on learning cannot easily be relocated.
• Trust Issues: Initial relocation announcement damaged student-administration relations.

Loewen noted that while the latest decision was promising, further steps are needed. Students are currently focused on completing their education with as little disruption as possible. They hope to achieve a resolution that allows them to finish their studies seamlessly in Saskatoon.