Southern Alberta Higher Education Relationship creates shared vision for region’s post-secondary institutions

• Research projects will encourage the sharing of facilities and expertise as well as joint applications for research funding.

• Student support services and facilities will be enhanced through shared resources and jointly developed initiatives promoting student well-being and success.

• Regional stewardship involves the collection and sharing of information and knowledge between institutions, while leveraging resources and building collective capacity. Officials say the goal is to determine, prioritize and then enable educational access to the full spectrum of learning opportunities available to learners.

Officials say the alliance plans to meet two to three times per year to discuss action items and evaluate progress, guided by the principles of inclusivity, transparency and consensus-building. They say mutual respect and reconciliation are at the heart of the collective approach, with a special focus on reconciliation and Indigenous education. According to the U of L, a student-centred commitment to all learners will be the focus of all decisions.

Officials say the potential of this collaborative effort is substantial. By leveraging the unique strengths and resources of each institution to create a comprehensive and diverse educational environment for all learners, the alliance is expected to be able to enhance educational opportunities, strengthen research impact and improve student supports.

“This partnership embodies our purpose of building a vibrant future with learners and our region,” says Kevin Shufflebotham, President & CEO, Medicine Hat College, in a press release. “By working together, we can better support students across southern Alberta, strengthening our college, our community and our region.”

“In our partnership, we share our history, strengths and responsibilities so every learner can find their place. In the Niitsitapi way, relationships are the source of strength,” explains Sinopaaki – Samantha Fox, Interim President, Red Crow Community College. “Each institution offers its own gifts, stories and responsibilities. When we come together in Innakotsiiysinni — respect for one another — we honour the land, uplift our learners and ensure that the wisdom of our ancestors guides our future.”

“Our partnership and commitment bring balance, respect for each Nation and institution, and help create a place where all learners can learn, thrive and belong,” adds Fox.

“This partnership reflects something truly unique, a university, college, polytechnic and Indigenous college coming together with a shared purpose in one region,” exclaims Dr. Brad Donaldson, President & CEO, Lethbridge Polytechnic. “By working collaboratively, we are strengthening pathways for students and positioning southern Alberta as a distinct and compelling destination for post-secondary education.”

“The opportunities created through this collaborative approach will greatly enhance student outcomes by creating more mobility between institutions, enriching educational options through collaborative programs and initiatives and enhancing services and supports,” states Dr. Digvir Jayas, President & Vice-Chancellor, University of Lethbridge. “This sharing of expertise will also strengthen the significant impact of our research efforts regionally, nationally and globally.”

“This partnership is about making post‑secondary education work better for students — clearer pathways, stronger alignment with jobs, and high‑quality education close to home,” shares Minister Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education. “It’s a practical example of how collaboration strengthens Alberta’s post‑secondary system.”

by LNN Staff

Southern Alberta Higher Education Relationship creates shared vision for region’s post-secondary institutions

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