SASKATOON — The University of Saskatchewan (USask) and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation came together in May to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
The partnership is designed to advance shared priorities including post-secondary education, research, health and wellness, as well as youth mentorship, community engagement and economic development.
“As a university we are committed to being the best place we can possibly be for Indigenous peoples,” said USask President Peter Stoicheff. “We are proud to work together with Muskeg Lake Cree Nation as part of that journey.”
The connection between the two communities isn’t new, with many members of the First Nation on campus as students, staff or faculty, but the signing of the MOU marks a significant next step.
“An important document like this can sound like something that is signed and potentially forgotten, but that is not the case here,” said Stoicheff. “As with our other MOUs, this represents a commitment by the university to work together.”
Following the signing of the MOU, a working group will be established with members from the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation community and key staff from various colleges at USask. The Office of the Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement will care for the MOU and manage the working group, ensuring a plan is built specifically to meet the needs of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation.
“This partnership is rooted in respect and built on the understanding that true collaboration uplifts everyone,” said Muskeg Lake Cree Nation Councillor and USask alumnus Carol Lafond. “It reflects our commitment to nation building and creating opportunities for current and future generations of Muskeg Lake citizens—whether they live on or off reserve.”
“We are proud to walk alongside the University of Saskatchewan as we continue to grow, learn, and build a path forward that reflects our nehiyawak values and our vision as a Nation.”
This collaborative and reciprocal partnership is something made possible in part by ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous strategy.
“The strategy is designed to open doors to new opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students and create safe and accountable spaces,” said Dr. Angela Jaime (PhD), vice-provost, Indigenous engagement.
“The Indigenous student experience is the most important thing that we do,” said Jaime. “They are the reason we are here.”
The partnership between USask and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation was formalized May 22, 2025 at USask, with members of both communities present.
— Submitted by USask Media Relations
