Mount Saint Vincent University celebrates launch of Indigenous tourism program
The Kinu Tourism Project at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) in Halifax has been years in the making, with a focus on relationship building, Mi’kmaw knowledge gathering, and course development. Recently, the project reached a significant milestone with the launch of its program and the welcoming of its first cohort of nine Indigenous students in September.
One of the students in the program, Gabriel Robitaille, who hails from the Paqtnkek First Nation in Nova Scotia, expressed his admiration for the Indigenous leaders in the tourism industry that the program has connected him with. He highlighted their dedication and purpose, which has inspired him to move forward in his own journey.
Robitaille noted the significant difference in the level of support he has received in this program compared to his previous university experience. The program offers a mix of in-person and remote learning, with options for one-year certificate, two-year diploma, and four-year degree programs. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in paid work placements that contribute to their course hours.
Bradley Paul, a Mi’kmaw from Paqtnkek and the project coordinator for Kinu, emphasized the importance of community relationships in developing the program. The project team worked closely with Indigenous Advisory Committee members, tourism professionals, educators, knowledge keepers, and elders from Mi’kmaw territory to create course materials that align with the needs of local communities.
The word “Kinu” translates to “Us together,” symbolizing the inclusion of Indigenous voices in the tourism industry and university classrooms. The program aims to equip future tourism professionals with culturally relevant teachings that they can apply when working in Indigenous territories. As part of the curriculum, a mandatory course titled “Introduction to Mi’kmaw and Indigenous Tourism” has been developed for all tourism students at MSVU.
Jennifer Guy, an assistant professor in the tourism and hospitality management program at MSVU and co-lead of the Kinu Tourism Project, highlighted the community-led nature of the initiative. The project has produced 300 hours of original course content, which has been integrated into the program to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous tourism.
Overall, the Kinu Tourism Project represents a significant step towards the growth of the Indigenous tourism industry and the demand for Indigenous tourism education. The program is committed to supporting students and empowering them to make a positive impact in the field of tourism.
