Throughout Saskatchewan, many children who have come with their families to escape the war in Ukraine have been accepted and are thriving in schools. They were able to come to Canada through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel. Through this program, the students who sought refuge with their families in Saskatchewan are not considered to be refugees. However, when it comes to post-secondary education, it means many will have to pay international student tuition rates.  

The Saskatchewan government rolled out a program to provide relief to Ukrainian students, by allowing them to pay the same tuition as domestic students if they choose to pursue their post-secondary education here in the province.  

"These students are in a unique situation,” explained Minister of Advanced Education Gord Wyant. “We want them to be able to continue living here to study at one of our excellent post-secondary institutions without causing severe financial hardship for their families." 

For those who plan to pursue their post-secondary at Southeast College, they will be able to take advantage of the program. Tuesday morning, the college announced they are supporting the Ukrainian Student Relief Program. 

"Southeast College is honoured to join forces with the Government of Saskatchewan in our unwavering commitment to support Ukrainian students throughout their educational journey,” said CEO and President of Southeast College Dr. Vicky Roy in a written release. “Through providing access to affordable post-secondary education, we firmly believe that these students will be empowered to excel academically and make meaningful contributions to the prosperity of Saskatchewan." 

The aim of the program is to facilitate the integration of Ukrainian students in Saskatchewan into the local educational system and to help reduce the financial burden that would be imposed while pursuing higher education.