February 5, 2026

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SCIC Welcomes $36M Canadian Investment in Advancing Global Citizenship

 

The Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation (SCIC) congratulates the Government of Canada for its announcement of a $36M Canadian investment in the new ICN ‘Engage: Global Citizens, Global Impact’ initiative shared by The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State for International Development, at the International Development Week 2026 Parliamentary Reception in Ottawa last night. SCIC will be a recipient of funds under this new project along with other Councils across Canada as part of the ICN Network.

 

"This initiative seeks to catalyze a transformative shift in how people across Canada understand and act upon their role as global citizens in support of Canada’s international assistance priorities and responsibilities, gender equality, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," shares Malcolm Toland, Executive Director of SCIC, on behalf of the ICN. "It recognises Canada's role in an increasingly interconnected world, and the importance of engaging Canadians in global issues."

 

This initiative will build on shared momentum and lessons learned from the ICN's 'Inspiring Action', 'SPUR Change', and 'FIT' programs, which have supported diverse civil society organizations, youth, educators, and other community-based actors over the past seven years. Together, the Councils will strengthen pan-Canadian coordination through facilitated convenings, collective advocacy, and shared resources, with a focus on deepening the inclusion and engagement of historically underrepresented communities in Canada’s international cooperation efforts.

 

The approach includes both breadth-focused activities that create broad visibility and access, and depth-focused engagement opportunities that foster sustained learning, leadership and collaboration. SCIC stands ready to work with partners to implement activities under this project in Saskatchewan, building on its 52-year history in supporting public engagement on global issues.

 

As noted by the Secretary of State for International Development during his announcement: “This program is expected to reach over 4 million Canadians, particularly underrepresented communities such as Indigenous Peoples, Diaspora groups, rural populations and youth.” Through it the ICN hopes to inspire engagement of people from coast to coast to coast of all ages and backgrounds in issues that impact us all, locally and globally.

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For more information, contact the Council in your region:

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About

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The Inter-Council Network (ICN) is a coalition of the eight Provincial and Regional Councils for International Cooperation. These independent member-based Councils are committed to global social justice and social change and represent more than 350 diverse civil society organizations from across Canada.

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Global Affairs Canada manages Canada’s diplomatic relations, provides consular services to Canadians, promotes the country’s international trade, and leads Canada’s international development and humanitarian assistance.

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