REGINA — The University of Regina is setting its course for the next decade, unveiling an ambitious strategic plan that aims to elevate its research profile, deepen community impact, and prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
The plan, titled "Together, We Serve", lays out the university’s vision through 2035, built on more than a year of consultation with students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners.
At its core, the roadmap reflects both continuity and change.
“It doesn’t occur in a vacuum,” president and vice-chancellor Jeff Keshen explained. “Some of it builds on what’s already been happening, and some of it anticipates new directions. It’s about reaffirming aspirations, but also adapting to where the world is going.”
A push to become research intensive
One of the most significant shifts is a deliberate move toward becoming a research-intensive institution.
Keshen pointed to a focused approach, where the university will invest more heavily in areas of established strength rather than trying to do everything.
“We can’t be everything to everybody,” he said. “But we can identify where we have expertise and global reach, and support those areas in a meaningful way.”
That includes expanding work in health and human resources, aligning with provincial priorities, and building on emerging leadership in energy transition.
Research into hydrogen, carbon capture, and small modular reactors is already gaining traction through partnerships with other post-secondary institutions in Saskatchewan.
“We are seeing real momentum,” Keshen noted. “Those are areas where we can have both local and global impact.”
He also emphasized the importance of expanding undergraduate research opportunities, calling it a key part of the student experience and a driver of innovation.
“Research attracts students, builds reputation and brings funding,” he said. “It drives knowledge and discovery across the institution.”
Every student connected to the real world
Beyond research, the plan puts a strong emphasis on experiential learning.
The university already operates one of Western Canada’s oldest co-op programs, but the goal now is broader.
“We want every student, by the time they graduate, to have some kind of community-based experience,” Keshen stated. “Whether that’s an internship, a co-op, or applied learning, it connects their studies to the real world.”
The aim is to produce graduates who are more career-ready and better able to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom.
A deeper commitment to reconciliation
The plan also strengthens the university’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, embedding it across teaching, research, governance and campus life.
Keshen pointed to ongoing progress, but said more work lies ahead, particularly in supporting Indigenous students.
“We want to create pathways that ensure students feel supported and confident they can succeed in every part of the institution,” he said.
That includes a growing focus on Indigenous students in urban areas, reflecting changing demographics and needs.
Facing a changing landscape
The strategy arrives at a time of significant pressure for universities across Canada.
Declines in international student enrolment, driven by federal policy changes, are creating financial strain across the sector.
Keshen acknowledged those challenges, but stressed the importance of having a clear plan in uncertain times.
“When resources are stretched, it becomes even more important to know where you’re going,” he explained. “A strategic plan helps ensure we’re investing wisely to enhance the student experience and have impact.”
The university is also adapting to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, which is reshaping both learning and the workplace.
“We have to embrace the benefits of AI, but also make sure students are using it ethically,” he said. “They need to be in control of the technology, not the other way around.”
A vision shaped by many voices
University leadership says the plan’s strength lies in its broad foundation.
Board of governors chair Adynea Russell described it as a shared vision for the institution’s future.
“We’re not only sharing what we want to achieve, but how we’re going to get there,” she expressed. “There’s a real focus on transparency and accountability.”
That sentiment was echoed by Aziz Douai, who chaired the strategic planning steering committee.
“This plan was shaped by the voices of our entire community,” he said. “It reflects our shared values and our collective commitment to serving our communities together.”
For Keshen, the plan is both a roadmap and a statement of intent.
“It’s about growing our reputation, attracting people to study and stay in Saskatchewan, and contributing to the province in meaningful ways,” he shared.
Over the next 10 years, the success of "Together, We Serve" will be measured not just by targets, but by how effectively the university adapts, invests and delivers on its promise.
