Congratulations; Saskatchewan’s 2020 Graduation Class. It is unfortunate that classes were disrupted by COVID-19, however this year’s grads have achieved a momentous milestone. This conclusion to your years of hard work may be unfortunate; however, it is no less significant in recognizing your accomplishments and I applaud you for your efforts to finish your school year through continued distant learning with school assistance. You are also to be commended for finding innovative ways to celebrate your graduation appropriately and safely.
This year’s ceremonies and celebrations are certainly not what you may have envisioned for your graduation but your ingenuity and creativity will ensure that the experience is well organized and will be remembered throughout your lifetime.
I wish you success in achieving the goals you set as you take that next step in life’s journey. There are many opportunities for a promising future right here in our community and across our province. More than anything, I encourage you to choose a direction that you are passionate about.
Saskatchewan is a great place to live, to learn and to work. Many graduates may choose to enter the workforce immediately, while many may wish to continue into higher education. Saskatchewan has an impressive variety of high quality post-secondary education institutions including our two major universities, trade schools and colleges. Students planning to advance their education can take advantage of more than 20 programs at Saskatchewan Polytechnic here in Moose Jaw. Many of the credits gained can be transferred to university degree programs in Regina or Saskatoon if you so wish. Online courses and apprenticeships also expand learning possibilities. Briercrest College and Seminary has degree courses to offer as well.
Our government is ready to offer assistance in whatever your chosen path may be with programs to encourage you to remain in Saskatchewan to assist in growing our province and contributing to our economic strength. For post-secondary grads, as you move on to the next stage of your life, know that you hold an important place in the future of our province.
Saskatchewan has a variety of student support programs including loans, grants and scholarships. Eligible students may receive a tax credit of up to $20,000 on their income tax through the Graduate Retention Program – the most aggressive youth retention plan in Canada. The Saskatchewan Advantage Scholarship (SAS) provides eligible grade 12 graduates $500 per year, to a lifetime maximum of $2,000. I encourage you to learn more about these and other programs at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/education-and-learning
Our province continues to undertake the most aggressive youth retention plan in Canada, while exploring new incentives to keep life affordable for young people and create more opportunities to realize their future right here at home.
Congratulations and best wishes for a prosperous future working toward the goals you have set. I encourage you to follow your dreams and aspirations.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
