Province invests in 3-month program involving classroom setting, practical work experience
The government of Saskatchewan has announced a three-month agreement to fund an Indigenous Mining Pre-Employment Program. The program, in collaboration with Morris Interactive, will see an investment of $48,000 and will run from September to November 2023.
Participants will be hired from the Cowessess First Nation and the surrounding area, with the goal being to connect Indigenous communities with the mining industry and to secure participants employment in the potash mining sector upon completion of the program.
"This partnership will improve employment opportunities for Indigenous job seekers, and increase participation in the resource sector," said Minister of Immigration and Career Training Jeremy Harrison. "We're excited to join forces with Morris Interactive to create meaningful opportunities in Saskatchewan, empower Indigenous talent and enable growth in the mining sector."
Classroom setting, practical work experience
The program will introduce participants to the mining industry, prepare them to pursue jobs and learn the basics of potash mining, which uses virtual reality, simulators and drone technology, according to the government.
The 10-week program will feature eight weeks of learning in a classroom setting, followed by two weeks of practical work experience at Mosaic’s Esterhazy mine site.
"This additional support for the Morris Interactive program by the provincial government is excellent news," said Bruce Bodine, Senior Vice President, North America for The Mosaic Company. "Mosaic also made a major investment in the program in 2022. The work practicums at our sites provide education, mentorship and opportunity for Indigenous students looking to enter the potash industry."
The investment is part of the government of Saskatchewan’s work with post-secondary institutions and training providers to help align programs and training offerings with in-demand jobs. These programs contribute towards the goals laid out in Saskatchewan's Growth Plan, which include creating 100,000 new jobs by 2030 and growing the provincial population to 1.4 million.
