Saskatchewan Polytechnic Retains ESET Program in Saskatoon

Students enrolled in the electronic systems engineering technology (ESET) program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic will no longer need to relocate to complete their studies. The institution announced on March 15, 2024, that second-year students currently based in Saskatoon will be able to finish their program without moving to Regina, reversing a previous decision that had caused significant concern among students.

In a statement released on Friday, Saskatchewan Polytechnic confirmed that the details regarding the program’s delivery location are still being finalized. The announcement comes after students received an email in late January indicating that their second year would only be offered in Regina. This requirement would have forced students to make difficult choices about either relocating across the province or abandoning their studies altogether.

The initial decision to relocate the program was met with backlash from students. Many felt it lacked proper consultation and could potentially lead to drop-outs. Concerns were raised about the impact on students’ education and the logistical challenges of moving, especially given that the ESET program relies heavily on specialized technical equipment.

The institution cited a need for adjustments to academic programs as part of its response to a financial shortfall linked to shifting federal immigration policies. The changes are also intended to support the long-term sustainability of programs at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. The school emphasized that maintaining the program in Saskatoon will help ensure that graduates remain competitive in emerging technologies.

Alex Loewen, a first-year ESET student, expressed relief upon learning of the decision to retain the program in Saskatoon. He stated, “It’s a big relief that we’ve taken a step in the right direction and that we’ve been heard. But it is just the first step.”

Loewen and his peers are hopeful that whatever new location is chosen will facilitate the program’s technical equipment needs. He pointed out that the equipment used in their studies is not easily transferable and requires specialized environments for hands-on learning.

The shift in plans has raised questions about trust between students and the administration. Loewen remarked that the initial move, which did not involve student input, contributed to a sense of anger and hopelessness among the student body. He noted that public support and media scrutiny likely played a role in prompting the school to reconsider its approach.

For now, students are focused on completing their education with as little disruption as possible. Loewen concluded, “If we can get a result where we can continue and finish our education in a relatively undisrupted way, I think we’re going to say good enough.”

As Saskatchewan Polytechnic moves forward with its plans, students await further details on the program’s delivery while hoping for a solution that meets their educational needs.