Letters: U of S mulls demolition during Saskatoon homeless crisis

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I see that the seminary buildings on the northwest corner of the University of Saskatchewan campus are boarded up, and that the site of the two buildings is now surrounded by a temporary security fence. This is distressing.

At a time when there is general clamour for housing for the homeless, to consider demolishing two housing structures that are not that old, and could possibly be put back into use, seems counterintuitive?

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These buildings are accessible to the city core on the Meewasin Valley Trail. They are not located adjacent to other residential housing. The properties are serviced with energy and water. There is parking. They are close to two hospitals.

They would be a laboratory for those studying architecture, engineering, psychology, medicine,
dentistry, law, accounting, education, social work. They would be a project for Saskatchewan Polytech students in trades: electrical, mechanical, masonry, carpentry and more.

They would provide jobs during the renovation, and continuous jobs during operations. A van could be sourced to bring basic merchandise to the site daily (food, clothing and other necessary articles).

The city police, campus police and RCMP could collaborate on providing security, which may be more efficient than monitoring the presently dispersed homeless.

This vision should appeal to the City of Saskatoon, the federal and Saskatchewan governments, the U of S, Royal University Hospital, the Irene and Leslie Dube Centre for Mental Health, the Saskatoon Tribal Council and many others. Perhaps they could get together and make something happen

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Robert Hawkins, Saskatoon

New approach needed for Sask. education

Congratulations to Everett Hindley and Ken Cheveldayoff on their recent appointments as Saskatchewan’s education ministers. Their leadership presents a unique opportunity to reshape our education system into one that fosters excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Saskatchewan’s education rankings reveal room for improvement. Many parents — especially newcomers — have expressed concerns that schools are under-challenging students.

To address this, I urge the government to implement strategies to identify and nurture gifted students through targeted programs and advanced learning opportunities.

A comprehensive curriculum review, spanning early learning to higher education, could ensure that all Saskatchewan students, including those in rural areas, are equipped to compete with peers at top global institutions and to contribute meaningfully to future solutions.

Fostering excellence requires encouraging healthy competition. Provincial STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), arts and humanities competitions could inspire pride and achievement while driving overall provincial performance.

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Innovation must also be central. Hands-on learning through STEM labs, maker spaces, and industry partnerships would equip students with real-world skills. Furthermore, teachers need continuous professional development to effectively address diverse classrooms and integrate modern teaching methods.

Finally, measurable goals and transparent reporting on educational progress are essential to instil public confidence and ensure accountability. With bold vision and commitment, Saskatchewan can become a leader in education, preparing our youth to excel on the national and global stage.

Victor Ejike, Regina

Christmas advertising shows disrespect

Any store or business, huge or small, multinational or local, that does Christmas advertising before Remembrance Day will not get my dollars. Disrespect should not be rewarded. I hope others agree.

Girard Hengen, Saskatoon

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