REGINA — Saskatchewan is taking its classrooms to the world.
Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff is leading a delegation to the Philippines and Thailand alongside leaders from the province’s three largest post-secondary institutions, in a mission designed to open doors for students, researchers and the provincial economy.
From Feb. 20 to 28, the delegation will meet with representatives from government, industry and educational institutions to deepen ties in two priority markets and create new opportunities aligned with Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan and International Education Strategy.
“Building relationships abroad connects Saskatchewan to the world and increases our province's international visibility,” Cheveldayoff said. “Promoting Saskatchewan's post-secondary advantages on a global scale helps meet Saskatchewan's Growth Plan goals and demonstrates how our post-secondary sector can benefit jurisdictions around the world.”
At the heart of the mission are new memorandums of understanding between Saskatchewan institutions and partners in both countries. The agreements are expected to expand student exchange programs, foster collaborative research and strengthen knowledge-sharing in key sectors.
Dr. Jeff Keshen, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Regina, said the mission represents more than a series of meetings.
“This mission reflects a shared commitment to building long-term international relationships that benefit our institutions, our province, and our world,” Keshen said. “By strengthening connections with partners in Thailand and the Philippines, we are expanding opportunities to share ideas, knowledge, and research while supporting student mobility and positioning Saskatchewan as a welcoming destination for students from around the world.”
At the University of Saskatchewan, president and vice-chancellor Vince Bruni-Bossio said the trip builds on an already expanding global presence.
“As the University of Saskatchewan continues to have impact all over this world, this mission extends USask's global reach,” Bruni-Bossio said. “By strengthening these partnerships, we are expanding the communities we learn from and contribute to, creating new opportunities that connect Saskatchewan to a broader global network.”
The province’s applied learning sector is also front and centre. Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, confirmed the institution will sign an MOU with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines during the mission.
“This mission presents an important opportunity to strengthen Saskatchewan Polytech's global connections and deepen our partnerships with institutions in the Philippines and Thailand,” Rosia said. “Missions like this bring Sask Polytech's international strategy to life.”
The Philippines and Thailand are not only education partners but growing economic allies. In 2024, Saskatchewan exports to the Philippines totalled more than $121 million, while exports to Thailand surpassed $128 million, underscoring the broader trade and labour connections between the jurisdictions.
Provincial officials say strengthening academic ties supports workforce development at home. International students contribute to Saskatchewan’s labour market, fill critical skills gaps and build lasting cultural and economic bridges.
