Northlands College is proud to announce its attainment of full institutional eligibility with both the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). This agreement unlocks the capacity and expertise of the faculty and Staff of Northlands College, as well as spreading opportunities for our learners across the North and unlocks countless applied research opportunities to support the college's service region and indigenous education strategy.
Achieving this milestone for Northlands College, President & CEO Karsten Henriksen stated: "Securing institutional eligibility and establishing this agreement with SSHRC and NSERC is a key step in the colleges strategic approach to transform educational and research opportunities at Northlands College. This collaboration not only aligns with our vision to serve the residents of Northern Saskatchewan but also fortifies our mission to uphold northern self-determination and contribute profoundly to the advancement of post-secondary education in the North. By expanding our research capabilities, we are better equipped to address the unique challenges and opportunities for our partners domestically and internationally while, promoting innovation and excellence in various academic and trades fields particularly, in the area of indigenous education."
The agreement reinforces the strong relationship between funding partners and Northlands College to foster research capacity in Northern Saskatchewan. This partnership ensures the effective utilization of federal research and provides comprehensive access to programs designed to promote research activities within the institution.
This eligibility opens doors to a broad spectrum of opportunities, enhancing Northlands College's ability to conduct impactful research. The collaboration between the granting agencies and Northlands College guarantees that federal research investments are managed with utmost responsibility and efficiency, benefiting from the college's qualified faculty resources.
The implications of this agreement are far-reaching, positioning Northlands College to significantly bolster its research capabilities across diverse fields. Areas poised to experience substantial benefits include:
- Social Sciences and Humanities: Research in disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, economics, psychology, and Indigenous studies will see increased support and funding.
- Natural Sciences and Engineering: Projects focusing on environmental science, geology, mining engineering, and sustainable resource management are expected to thrive, reflecting the college's geographical focus and commitment to northern Saskatchewan.
- Indigenous-focused Research: With 98% of Northlands College's learner population being self-declared Indigenous, there will be a prioritized emphasis on research initiatives that address Indigenous issues, culture, and knowledge.
This agreement marks a new era for Northlands College, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in education and research, and driving forward the development of northern Saskatchewan. The collaboration with SSHRC and NSERC exemplifies a shared dedication to innovation, community development, and academic advancement.
