The First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina are renewing their partnership.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today, which looks to enhance communication, strengthen collaboration and build on Indigenous ways of knowing.
“The principles of reconciliation that are outlined in the MOU commits our institutions to a high standard of relationship and collaborative activities, and an annual renewal event to reset and remind us of what we promised each other through the signing of this agreement,” said First Nations University President Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann. “It is a monumental day.”
The University of Regina has long supported the aspirations of the Indigenous people of Saskatchewan to have a post-secondary institution of their own and was instrumental in the development of the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College in 1976, the precursor of today’s FNUniv, which is one of three federated colleges at the U of R.
“We exist during an incredible time of opportunity to make things right, to walk together in a good way,” said U of R President Dr. Jeff Keshen. “To have a document to guide us, created in tandem and with deep respect, is an amazing gift not only to the leadership of our two institutions, but also to the faculty, staff, students, and the many community partners we serve.”
The MOU will be in place for five years