Métis education in Saskatchewan took an important step forward today as the University of Regina announced a new affiliation agreement with the Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research (GDI), as well as a renewed agreement for the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP), which is also offered through GDI.
The affiliation agreement with GDI allows for programs delivered through that organization to be recognized as university caliber, and to have them accredited by the Senate of the University. As well, it opens the door to the joint development of other programs and educational initiatives in order to address the post-secondary education needs of students of Métis ancestry in Saskatchewan.
“The University of Regina is committed to serving our Indigenous communities across Saskatchewan and ensuring we are meeting the needs of Indigenous students,” says Dr. Thomas Chase, Provost and Vice-President (Academic). “This new affiliation agreement with the Gabriel Dumont Institute will make a broader spectrum of quality, post-secondary programming available to Métis students, with university classes often being offered right in the communities where they live.”
Current academic program agreements between GDI and the University include:
- Justice Studies Diploma and Certificate in Prince Albert;
- Liberal Arts Certificate in La Ronge and Pinehouse;
- Northern Saskatchewan Indigenous Teacher Education Program (NSITEP) on the Lac La Ronge Indian Band reserve;
- and Community-based Master of Education program in Prince Albert.
Although programs developed through the affiliation are not restricted to students of Métis ancestry, the common vision is focused on providing sustainable and cost-effective educational opportunities for the Métis community that allows its members affordable access to University programming. The affiliation will expand the range of programs and further strengthen the educational and social bridges that exist between the University of Regina and the Métis community.
Additionally, the University of Regina signed a renewed agreement to continue its partnership with the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) that offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, leading to a Saskatchewan Professional Teaching Certificate. The program is offered in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert, through the Gabriel Dumont Institute and in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the University of Saskatchewan.
“Gabriel Dumont Institute has partnered with the University of Regina for four decades,” says Dr. Earl Cook, Minister of Education, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan and Chair, Gabriel Dumont Institute Board of Governors. “To date over 270 Indigenous students have graduated from SUNTEP at the University of Regina campus, and another 70 students have completed their Master of Education degrees in Prince Albert. The new affiliation agreement is another critical step in continuing our mandate of expanding educational opportunities for Métis students.”
