Advocacy Update: Graduate Students Driving Innovation for Alberta’s Future

On November 12, 2024, the University of Calgary Graduate Students’ Association (UCGSA) met with members of the Alberta New Democratic Party (NDP) to discuss the pivotal role graduate students play in shaping Alberta’s economy and driving innovation.

UCGSA was represented by Saaka Sulemana (President), Hunter Yaworski (Vice President—External), Nadia Ghazanfari (Vice President—Student Life), Andrew Kemle (Advocacy Advisor), and Graham Sucha (Executive Director).

The NDP delegation included MLAs David Eggen, Court Ellingson, and Nathan Ip, who joined the conversation to explore how graduate students can help address the province’s productivity challenges and contribute to long-term economic success.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion:

1. Graduate Students and Economic Growth
   UCGSA highlighted the vital role graduate students play in Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Through cutting-edge research, industry partnerships, and technology transfer initiatives, graduate students contribute directly to the province’s economic growth and competitiveness. Their work is helping to position Alberta as a leader in sectors like technology, energy, and healthcare.
2. Meeting the Evolving Needs of Alberta’s Workforce
   The discussion also focused on how graduate students are uniquely equipped to meet the changing demands of Alberta’s workforce. With a blend of technical expertise and key soft skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and communication, graduate students are essential in preparing Alberta’s future workforce for an increasingly complex and globalized economy.
3. Transdisciplinary Research and Complex Challenges
   Graduate students are at the forefront of transdisciplinary research, collaborating across fields to solve complex challenges like climate change, public health, and sustainability. This approach is critical to driving innovation and addressing the diverse issues that will shape Alberta’s future.
4. Attracting and Retaining Global Talent
   A major topic of concern was the challenge of attracting and retaining global talent. UCGSA raised important issues regarding federal immigration policies and how they may impact Alberta’s ability to attract international graduate students. With global competition for top talent intensifying, retaining skilled researchers and innovators is crucial for the province’s ongoing success.

A Collaborative Vision for Alberta’s Future

Graduate students are not just contributors to Alberta’s educational landscape—they are key drivers of the province’s economic success. By advancing research, fostering innovation, and developing critical skills, graduate students are helping to shape a stronger, more competitive Alberta.

UCGSA remains committed to advocating for policies that support graduate students and ensure they remain central to the province’s growth and long-term prosperity.

Stay Informed and Get Involved

UCGSA encourages all students, faculty, and community members to stay informed about upcoming advocacy initiatives. Follow UCGSA on social media for updates and opportunities to get involved.

Together, we can help build a stronger, more innovative Alberta.