As part of a foundational commitment to expanding global partnerships, Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and Canada’s Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) have entered a three-year collaborative agreement to foster a cooperative relationship between the two institutions.
Aimed at fulfilling mutual strategic alignment of internationalising curriculum and the student experience, this exciting initiative will endeavour to develop joint programming, seek opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, share information and best practices and explore research initiatives.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education of Alberta, Canada.
Professor Vincent Cunnane, President of TUS, commented: “Collaboration is the lifeblood of innovation, and we are delighted to commit to this exciting new partnership with SAIT, which will open new opportunities across two continents for staff, students and researchers.”
Dr. David Ross, SAIT President and CEO, added: “Solidifying our mutual commitment to collaboration through this new partnership with TUS is invigorating. The opportunity to exchange information and develop new and engaging education methods in support of student success will be a welcomed initiative among SAIT faculty and staff.”
With a focus on enhancing faculty development through international projects, the agreement will support exploration into new teaching and learning practices in applied learning through leading-edge technology.
To further enrich the post-secondary experience, a committee made up of representatives from both institutions will determine learning opportunities for students to gain global perspectives through joint programming and potential education exchanges. Participation for student engagement in research projects, practicums or internships will also be evaluated.
Additionally, the TUS Research Institutes and SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services will take a coordinated approach to applied research in their respective areas of expertise and interest. Common areas include green technology and transformation, advanced manufacturing, digitalisation, bioeconomy and agriculture.