Sask. Polytechnic lays off 93, plans to suspend or defer upcoming programs amid pandemic

Things are going to be a lot different at Saskatchewan Polytechnic come the fall.

According to the institution, some programs will be suspended or deferred this upcoming semester.

Additionally, 93 full-time and part-time employees have been given temporary and permanent layoff notices amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the day-to-day operations of Sask Polytech. This global pandemic has triggered the largest economic crisis of our lifetime and is the biggest disruption the post-secondary education sector has ever experienced,” read a statement from Brianna Bergeron, Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s communication strategist.

Bergeron says Saskatchewan Polytechnic will not share positions, departments or programs impacted out of respect for its employees.

The institution did give 650 CKOM a breakdown of layoff notices, however.

Thirteen full- and part-time academic employees were given temporary layoff notices. Sixteen were given permanent notices.

Temporary layoff notices were given to 35 full- and part-time professional services employees, along with 28 permanent notices.

One out-of-scope employee received a permanent layoff notice.

“The suspension of the majority of on-campus operations has resulted in significant reductions or stoppages of work in some areas of our institution, including work that cannot be done remotely,” Monday’s statement reads.

“At the same time, Sask Polytech is preparing for a decline in enrolment and an anticipated revenue shortfall. Some Sask Polytech programs are suspended or deferred this upcoming fall semester.”

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has four main campuses that are located in Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.