NationTalk: On September 26th, 2024, the Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) and the University of Regina (U of R) held a special signing ceremony to renew their affiliation agreement, reinforcing their commitment to collaborate on educational opportunities for the Métis community. This renewed partnership will continue to deliver fully accredited post-secondary programs that support the advancement of Métis culture and heritage, including the newly introduced Indigenous Education Doctorate Program. The U of R and GDI have a longstanding history of cooperation, working together to provide high-quality education that meets the needs of Métis students. The renewed affiliation agreement solidified this relationship, ensuring that both institutions can continue to build on their shared goals of promoting Métis culture, language, and history while delivering exceptional academic programs.
Dr. Nilgün Önder,Associate Vice-President (Academic) U of R shakes the hand of GDI CEO Lisa Bird-Wilson. Behind stand Dr. Jeff Keshen U of R President and Vice-Chancellor and Viola Bell Vice-Chair of the GDI Board of Governors stand behind them.
A key highlight of the renewed partnership is the launch of the Indigenous Education Doctorate Program in Prince Albert. The program is offered through a partnership between GDI and the U of R’s Faculty of Education. This three-year program emphasizes Métis local knowledge, history, spirituality, and culture. “The renewal of our affiliation agreement with the University of Regina marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to train Métis educators,” said Métis Nation—Saskatchewan Minister and Chair of the GDI Board of Governors Wendy Gervais, who further added, “We are particularly excited to work together on the new Indigenous Education Doctorate Program, which represents a major step forward in our mission to support and empower Métis students.”
Chief Executive Officer of GDI, Lisa Bird-Wilson
The U of R shares this enthusiasm, recognizing the importance of this partnership in meeting the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“Collaboration with other world-class post-secondary institutions such as the Gabriel Dumont Institute is an essential part of being able to deliver an accessible, quality education to our students,” said Dr. Jeff Keshen, U of President and Vice-Chancellor. “Our longstanding partnership with GDI and the newly created Indigenous Education Doctorate Program allows us to better serve Métis students around the province and reinforces our ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation.”
This partnership will continue to create opportunities for academic and personal success for Métis students, ensuring the future of education is bright.