Advocating for Graduate Students: Open Letter for Representation in Alberta’s University Future

The University of Calgary Graduate Students’ Association (UCGSA) took a decisive step to ensure that graduate students are heard in shaping Alberta’s post-secondary system. In an open letter addressed to Dr. Jack Mintz, we formally requested the inclusion of a graduate student representative on the expert review panel he chairs.

Dr. Mintz, a renowned economist and President’s Fellow at the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, brings extensive expertise to his role as Chair of this panel.

Why This Matters

Post-secondary education is a cornerstone of Alberta’s prosperity, driving innovation, research, and economic growth. Yet, graduate students—who play a pivotal role in both teaching and research—are often underrepresented in key decision-making processes. Their contributions go beyond academia, bridging the gap between universities and industries through research commercialization and technological advancements.

Our Request

In the letter, UCGSA President Saaka Sulemana highlighted the critical role of graduate students and emphasized the importance of their representation on the panel. Including a graduate student would provide valuable insights and ensure that the expert panel’s recommendations are informed by the voices of those deeply embedded in Alberta’s post-secondary ecosystem.

Looking Forward

As stakeholders in Alberta’s post-secondary education system, UCGSA remains committed to advocating for graduate students and their indispensable contributions. We believe that including a graduate student on the expert panel is a vital step toward creating a world-class system that attracts top talent, drives innovative research, and strengthens Alberta’s global competitiveness.