Inuit Nunangat University one step closer to becoming a reality
Students living in the four Inuit regions of Canada are one step closer to having the opportunity to attend university without leaving their traditional lands. Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), the national organization representing Inuit in Canada, has announced plans to establish Inuit Nunangat University, the first Inuit-governed and Inuit-owned university in Canada’s Arctic.
The idea for Inuit Nunangat University has been in development for several years, and the recent unveiling of the project included a significant $50 million donation from the Mastercard Foundation. Natan Obed, president of ITK, explained that the university aims to cater to students who wish to live and study within Inuit Nunangat, fostering a learning environment that aligns with Inuit values and governance.
While the exact location of the university has yet to be determined, smaller campuses will be constructed in each of the four Inuit regions. Tracy Denniston, a university student from Nain, Labrador, expressed her excitement about the prospect of an Inuit university, reflecting on the challenges she faced when leaving her home community to pursue higher education.
ITK estimates that a total of $160 million will be required to bring Inuit Nunangat University to fruition. The organization has requested $50 million from the federal government in the upcoming budget, with plans to secure additional funding from private donations, philanthropists, and other levels of government.
The timeline for the university’s development includes the establishment of an interim academic council and a five-year work plan in 2025, followed by the selection of a site for the university. By 2026-2027, the university aims to develop an Inuktut language model and at least one degree program, alongside infrastructure planning. In 2028, the university will review and accredit its initial programs, with the goal of welcoming its first students in 2030.
Inuit Nunangat University represents a significant milestone in providing accessible higher education opportunities for students in remote Inuit communities, offering a unique learning experience grounded in Inuit culture and traditions. The establishment of this university is a testament to the commitment to education and empowerment within the Inuit community, paving the way for a new generation of Inuit scholars and leaders.
