Enhancing Indigenous education

Indigenous person smiling with beaded stethoscope around their neck

Our position

Universities are committed to advancing truth and reconciliation, and helping Indigenous students access and succeed in higher education.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples face significant barriers to postsecondary education. Yet, education is vital to the reconciliation process and universities are committed to helping Indigenous students reach their full potential through higher education. Universities help advance reconciliation by revitalizing Indigenous languages, ensuring Indigenous representation in university governance and leadership to bring Indigenous Knowledges and Cultures to campus.

Still much more remains to be done. Universities Canada is working with partners in government to encourage more support for Indigenous students to access and succeed in higher education.

Background and context

Far fewer First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Canada have a university degree than non-Indigenous Canadians. Closing this educational gap is critical to advance reconciliation and help Indigenous Peoples succeed, while also benefitting Canada’s economy.

Closing the education gap

The Indigenous population is growing rapidly, and with more young people, we can expect an increase in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students pursuing higher education. To meet this rising demand, major investments in Indigenous education has to be made. Universities Canada stands behind this urgent call. If First Nations individuals aged 25-64 achieved the same education levels as the rest of Canada, we could see 114,070 additional First Nations graduates and a 16.4% rise in overall employment among First Nations people.

The economic impact of closing the gap

Closing the educational gaps for First Nations people is not merely a matter of social justice; it is also an economic necessity that promises shared prosperity for all Canadians. A well-educated and fully engaged Indigenous population strengthens resilience and Canada’s competitiveness. By investing in First Nations, Métis and Inuit education, Canada can unlock the potential of a significant part of its population, leading to robust economic growth and a more equitable society.

News

By the numbers

  • 240

    courses covering Indigenous languages

    More than 240 courses covering more than 30 Indigenous languages are available at Canadian universities.

  • 89%

    prioritize reconciliation in strategic planning

    Close to 90% of institutions have a strategic plan for advancing reconciliation or have a plan in development.

  • 94%

    offer financial aid

    Over 90% of universities offer financial aid specifically earmarked for Indigenous students.

  • 89%

    working to integrate Indigenous Knowledges

    Nearly 90% of institutions are working to integrate Indigenous Knowledges and teaching methods into classrooms on campus.

  • 73%

    offer Indigenous-focused programs

    73% of institutions have programs that include an Indigenous specialization or focus or are specifically designed for Indigenous students.

  • 90%

    increasing Indigenous leadership

    90% of institutions are working to increase Indigenous representation among faculty and staff and improve retention.

  • 53%

    have a Calls to Action public strategy

    Over 50% of universities have a public strategy or action plan specifically to respond to the Calls to Action.

Publications

News from our universities