Medicine Hat college, Red Crow Community College, Lethbridge Polytechnic and the U of L are partnering to form the Southern Alberta Higher Education Relationship in order to work together in promotion of higher learning.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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Medicine Hat College is joining three other regional post-secondary institutions in a partnership to promote higher education in the area.
The Southern Alberta Higher Education Relationship is a formal collaborative agreement between MHC, Red Crow Community College, Lethbridge Polytechnic and the University of Lethbridge.
“This partnership embodies our purpose of building a vibrant future with learners and our region. By working together, we can better support students across southern Alberta, strengthening our college, our community and our region,” said MHC president and CEO Kevin Shufflebotham.
The agreement will co-ordinate the four institutions in four areas: academic programs, research, student supports and regional stewardship.
Academic pathways between institutions will be expanded and clarified to encourage student mobility and offer increased opportunities for interdisciplinary programming designed to meet regional needs.
Student services will be enhanced by sharing resources across campuses and joint development of initiatives designed to improve student wellbeing and success.
The participating institutions will also facilitate an increased sharing of facilities and expertise and collaborate on joint applications for research funding.
The alliance has been given the Blackfoot name Innakotsiiysinni, which means respect for others.
“In the Niitsitapi way, relationships are the source of strength. 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,” said Sinopaaki – Samantha Fox, interim president of Red Crow Community College.
The four institutions will meet two or three times annually to direct progress of the partnership.
