Saskatchewan Polytechnic has officially launched a new strategy aimed at improving the success of its Indigenous students.

After months of what officials say was extensive research and consultation, Saskatchewan Polytechnic schools have launched an official Indigenous Student Success Strategy.

The school celebrated the launch of the strategy at a special event at their Saskatoon campus Tuesday morning.

Several students, employees and community leaders were on hand to celebrate the new direction for the organization.

“Sask. Polytech is proud to officially launch out new Indigenous Student Success Strategy,” Sask. Polytech President and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia told those in attendance. “It is designed to maximize the success for this growing segment of our Indigenous students and is designed as a roadmap that reflects the needs of Indigenous students.”

Officials say the strategy was guided by the principles of reconciliation and is aimed at enhancing services and programming for Indigenous students.

(PHOTO: A photo of the nearly 100-page strategy booklet. Photo by Joel Willick.)

“Now is the time for Indigenous people to take their rightful place in Saskatchewan,” said Myrna Yuzicapi, an elder. “Saskatchewan Polytechnic can help that happen by providing an appropriate educational experience.”

Sask. Polytech officials say the new Indigenous Student Success Strategy builds upon the successes and lessons learned from the Aboriginal Student Achievement Plan originally launched in 2009.

Currently 19 per cent of the school’s student body is Indigenous, however, school officials say that number is growing every year.

(TOP PHOTO: Several community leaders and Sask. Polytech employees were on hand to celebrate the launch of the new strategy. Photo by Joel Willick.)