Indigenous enrollment increase helps offset drop in international students for Sask Polytech

Oct 30, 2026 | 4:10 PM

While Saskatchewan Polytechnic is facing a large drop in the number of international students, that loss is partially being made up by an increase in Indigenous student enrolment.

The school, which has a campus in Prince Albert, said that 1,425 Indigenous students enrolled in the fall of 2026, an increase of 19 per cent over the previous year.

All training levels saw increases, but certificate, diploma and degree programs had a 12 per cent jump according to updated numbers reported on October 30.

“The continued growth in Indigenous student enrolment reflects our commitment to creating inclusive learning environments and meaningful pathways to education and employment,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech.

“Indigenous learners are important to Saskatchewan’s future workforce, and we are proud to support them as they pursue their educational and career goals at Sask Polytech.”

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Sask Polytech attributed the increase to targeted recruitment efforts along with comprehensive supports that start before the student enters the classroom and continues throughout their time at the school.

“These results demonstrate the ongoing demand for polytechnic education across Saskatchewan,” says Dr. Rosia. “As the post-secondary landscape continues to evolve, we remain focused on delivering high-quality, hands-on education that prepares learners for successful careers and helps meet the province’s workforce needs.”

Dropping numbers of international students have led to a 44 per cent reduction and resulted in multiple layoffs of staff.

This year, overall fall enrollment is 9,835, a reduction of four per cent from 2025.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com

by Susan McNeil

Indigenous enrollment increase helps offset drop in international students for Sask Polytech

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