Students taking part in Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Electronic Systems Engineering Technology program in Saskatoon are scrambling after being told the initiative is relocating to Regina.

A release from the NDP says dozens of students are now being forced to pick up and move, many of whom can’t afford to live on their own, and some of which have already set up their lives in Saskatoon.

The Opposition says the decision was a direct result of a mandate from the provincial government made with zero consultation with students or faculty.

In response, 21 ESET students wrote to the Premier, describing the significant inconvenience this causes for many. Timothy Carlow, a first-year ESET student, says “I personally find this outrageous and disrespectful to the students who are paying to complete a very intense program.”

A statement from Saskatchewan Polytechnic says the school “continues to face significant challenges in the international education landscape. These factors have influenced international and domestic recruitment and contributed to revenue shortfalls. As a result, layoff notices have been issued to 23 full-time and part-time employees. Additional workforce adjustments may be required in the spring.”

It adds that, regarding program changes, Sask. Polytech has contacted affected students directly to review their options for program completion, and comprehensive supports are available to ensure students receive the guidance and resources they need during this transition.