Sharing Indigenous Knowledges and experiences at Canadian universities
Across the country, universities are increasingly providing students with opportunities to learn more about Indigenous cultures and. Many have introduced new programs, courses and initiatives to advance truth and reconciliation on campus.
McGill University focuses on Inuit health in the Nunavik region
Taught by Inuk assistant professor Richard Budgell, McGill University’s new family medicine course, Inuit Health in Canadian Context, focuses on Inuit health before and after the arrival of the Europeans, as well as the challenges posed by the modern-day health system. The course aims to provide an Inuit perspective on the topics and was offered to students for the first time in January 2022.
The University of Manitoba introduced a new mandatory Indigenous course for law students
While not the first of its kind at the University of Manitoba’s faculty of law, the course Indigenous Methodologies and Perspectives is the first to be included in the curriculum as a mandatory course for second year students. It looks at First Nations and Métis worldviews and the legal challenges Indigenous Peoples face. Designed to build on the content students are taught in their first year, the course aims to help students better understand and participate in ongoing reconciliation efforts.
Memorial University offers a multidisciplinary approach to Indigenous Studies
Newfoundland and Labrador’s Memorial University offers a certificate in Indigenous Studies to students looking to learn more about Indigenous cultures, history and perspectives. Offered by the university’s department of archeology, it combines courses on historical topics with more contemporary issues for a better understanding of First Nations and Métis experiences.
The University of Alberta provides graduates with the possibility of obtaining a PhD in Indigenous Studies
The University of Alberta’s PhD in Indigenous Studies allows students to push their studies even further by combining Indigenous Knowledges and interests with the rigorous research of a graduate degree. Students are encouraged to conduct research in various areas such as Indigenous identity, critical theory, feminism and governance.
York University supports new Indigenous research through its Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages
Inaugurated last fall, York University’s Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages (CIKL) is an initiative that aims to spread Indigenous Knowledges, experiences and cultures by hosting students and researchers conducting research on First Nations, Inuit and Métis topics.
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Universities Canada is the voice of Canada’s universities at home and abroad, advancing higher education, research and innovation for the benefit of all Canadians.
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Tagged: Equity, diversity and inclusion, Indigenous education
