History

Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) is governed by Saskatchewan's First Nation but also operates within the Saskatchewan provincial post-secondary system. SIIT was first established in 1976 as the Saskatchewan Indian Community College. In 1985, the operational name of the college was changed to the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, as determined by the Legislative Assembly of the FSIN. Thus, SIIT became a First-Nation controlled post-secondary institute in Canada.

SIIT initially delivered on-reserve adult academic upgrading, introductory skills and trades, and basic management training to First Nations adults throughout Saskatchewan. The programming mixture has evolved to include certified technical, vocational and trades programming throughout the province. More recently, SIIT continues to develop unique programming to meet the growing vocational and technical training needs for both industry and students.

The present mandate is this: "The Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (the "institute"), provides academic, career education, and training to First Nations adults in Saskatchewan. It is governed by the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies Act of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Legislative Assembly and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies Act of the Province of Saskatchewan."

On July 1, 2000, specific provincial legislation in the Province of Saskatchewan recognized SIIT as a post-secondary institution through the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies Act. The SIIT Act has given the institution recognition from both the First-Nations and non First-Nations communities. This legislation helps First Nations students transfer credits to other post-secondary institutions and have their certificates and diplomas recognized by both First-Nations and non First-Nations employers.

SIIT is continuing to grow due to successful partnerships with Governments and Communities. The organization will focus on developing a strong workforce to benefit all communities.