Province invests in growing energy and minerals research partnership

The Saskatchewan government is investing in a new partnership designed to strengthen the province’s role as a global leader in clean energy and mineral innovation.

To date, the province has committed $780,000 to support the establishment and operations of the Global Institute for Energy, Minerals and Society (GIEMS) — a research and training collaboration between Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the University of Regina, and the University of Saskatchewan.

The partnership was first announced through a memorandum of understanding at COP28 in Dubai in 2023 and aims to coordinate research, innovation and workforce development in Saskatchewan’s energy and mineral sectors.

“GIEMS is already opening up new opportunities to accelerate research and innovation and train future leaders in these critical sectors,” Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said in a release. “This partnership will support our labour market and significantly advance Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan goals.”

The institute is expected to help drive the transition to clean energy by bringing together post-secondary institutions, government, industry and Indigenous groups to collaborate on applied research and training.

GIEMS recently appointed Tom Kishchuk as executive director. Kishchuk brings extensive experience in the energy sector, including leadership roles with the Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovation.

“GIEMS will unlock the full potential of the people and organizations advancing the province’s energy and minerals sectors,” Kishchuk said. “By engaging with academia, industry, government and Indigenous organizations, GIEMS will act as a bridge that connects ideas, capabilities and opportunities to achieve shared provincial goals.”

Leaders from Saskatchewan’s post-secondary institutions say the partnership will enhance innovation and provide valuable training for students.

“At the University of Regina, we see GIEMS as a powerful catalyst for collaboration and innovation,” said Dr. Chris Yost, vice-president of research. “Our researchers are advancing knowledge that supports a more sustainable energy future, while our students gain the experience and skills needed to drive Saskatchewan’s energy and mineral sectors forward.”

University of Saskatchewan vice-president of research Dr. Baljit Singh said GIEMS’ collaborative model will “positively impact both people and the planet,” while Saskatchewan Polytechnic vice-provost Susan Blum noted it aligns with the institution’s “commitment to advancing industry-driven innovation.”

More information about the institute is available at www.giems.ca.