FNUniv is a unique institution based on Indigenous knowledges and values that serves Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike. Through industry partnerships that support career readiness, FNUniv is transforming the educational experience for their students.
With support from Co-operators and Mastercard Foundation, FNUniv is launching their Career Centre and Work-Integrated Learning Initiative designed for Indigenous students. The Centre will prioritize work-integrated learning (WIL), an area where Indigenous students are underrepresented. Using strategic industry partnerships, FNUniv will ensure that Indigenous students and graduates get hired and contribute to Canada’s educated workforce.
In addition to the new Career Centre, FNUniv is also establishing the National Indigenous Economic Prosperity Institute (NIEPI) in collaboration with the National Indigenous Economic Development Board. Among its many activities, NIEPI will be dedicated to collecting the data needed to measure progress towards the National Indigenous Economic Strategy’s Calls to Economic Prosperity and economic reconciliation.
“BHER and its members understand the importance of Indigenous sovereignty. We’re proud to support FNUniv in the journey toward economic reconciliation,” says Val Walker, CEO of BHER. “We also look forward to increasing Indigenous talent development through cross-sectional collaboration to achieve a more equitable and prosperous future for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.”
“FNUniv and the BHER members have a similar commitment – tackling skills, talent, innovation, and productivity challenges that we are encountering and preparing pathways to success that will strengthen society and Canada overall. Ensuring that Indigenous students transition successfully into the workforce and enacting economic reconciliation are tangible means to meeting these goals. This will be a meaningful partnership for FNUniv and BHER,” says Jacqueline Ottmann, President of the First Nations University of Canada.