Southeast College and Suncrest College have partnered to launch DATA In a New WaY (Digital and Tech Access for Indigenous, Newcomers, Women and Youth), a new computer science and workplace training initiative set to begin in June 2025.
The program is funded by a $404,000 grant from Future Skills Canada and delivered in collaboration with the Yorkton Tribal Council. It aims to train 40 students across Eastern Saskatchewan to meet the growing demand for digital skills, with a focus on rural and underrepresented populations, including First Nations individuals, newcomers, women, and youth.
“This partnership accesses the expertise of the Centre for Applied Research & Innovation at Suncrest to customize programming to meet community demand,” said Alison Dubreuil, President and CEO of Suncrest College. “It’s a response to community requests to provide opportunities for our youth and First Nations residents to gain essential tech skills.”
“Yorkton Tribal Council has a long relationship with the regional colleges to provide training and Skills for Success programming,” said Tribal Chief Isabel O’Soup. “We support additional education on our Nations to improve technology skills for our people.”
The 12-week course will include face-to-face instruction, project-based learning using real challenges from local businesses, and workplace readiness training through the Skills for Success program. It will run three half-days per week, providing flexibility for those balancing work or family commitments.
“We’re really encouraging enrollments for students in the region,” said Tania Andrist, Executive Director of Innovation and Applied Research at Southeast College. “This is our computer science training through projects with employability skills built in.”
Each of the two colleges will host two cohorts: one on a First Nation for Indigenous participants, and one open to general enrollment. Classes will be offered in Estevan, Yorkton, and two nearby First Nations communities.
To support student success, participants will receive laptops, monitors, and internet access if needed. Parents will also benefit from a land-based learning day camp for school-age children, designed to promote Indigenous culture and help kids retain academic progress over the summer.
The program will conclude with final presentation events at each college to showcase student projects and celebrate their achievements.
Enrollment is now open, with only 40 spots available. Interested applicants are encouraged to register early through Southeast College or Suncrest College.
For more information or to apply, visit southeastcollege.org or email research@southeastcollege.org.
DATA In a New WaY is funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Program through the Future Skills Centre.