GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
Jan 15, 2024
Posted in: Education, GDC, GDI, Partnership, Press Release, University
A new Indigenous Education Doctorate program, offered through a partnership between the Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research (GDI) and the University of Regina, Faculty of Education, is now accepting applications. The community-based program, designed for residents of Northern Saskatchewan, is being delivered in Prince Albert.
“The Indigenous Education Doctorate program builds on decades of important work between the University of Regina and the Institute. Together, our partnership programs have graduated hundreds of Indigenous educators at the undergraduate and graduate levels; this is a natural next step in creating higher education opportunities for northern Métis people,” said Brett Vandale, Acting Executive Director, GDI. “We are confident this program will establish an important pathway for advanced Métis capacity and perspectives within the Saskatchewan education system.”
The program is a full University of Regina doctoral degree with a focus on Métis local knowledge, history, spirituality, and culture within broader national and international contexts.
“It is very gratifying to see our partnership with the Gabriel Dumont Institute grow to include a doctoral degree in support of Indigenous educators and communities,” said Dr. James Nahachewsky, Dean of the Faculty of Education. “This doctorate program emphasizes Indigenous teaching and methodology, knowledge, leadership, land-based learning and incorporates working alongside community members and teachings from Elders.”
Beginning in July 2024, the three-year program will feature flexible course delivery including weekend sessions, summer institutes, and online distance education. The program is designed so students can form a community of learners able to support each other throughout their educational journey.
“Our efforts to ensure educational opportunities are available and accessible across Saskatchewan, especially with Indigenous communities in northern and remote areas is critical to advancing Truth and Reconciliation and to the University’s future,” said Nahachewsky.
Application for this one-of-a-kind program is currently open until February 15, 2024. Applicants require a master’s degree or higher from a recognized institution. For more information, visit: Indigenous Education Doctorate Program.
About the Gabriel Dumont Institute
GDI is a Métis-owned post-secondary and cultural institution in Saskatchewan. Since 1980, GDI has prided itself as a conservator of Métis culture and history. Under the umbrella of GDI, several departments and entities, including Dumont Technical Institute, Gabriel Dumont College, GDI Training & Employment, and GDI Culture & Heritage, work together to provide Métis-specific education programs and services in 14 communities across the province. GDI is affiliated with the Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN–S) and is governed by a 12-member Board of Governors representing each of the MN—S regions.
About the University of Regina
2024 marks our 50th anniversary as an independent University (although our roots as Regina College date back more than a century!). As we celebrate our past, we work towards a future that is as limitless as the prairie horizon. We support the health and well-being of our 16,700 students and provide them with hands-on learning opportunities to develop career-ready graduates. Our research enterprise has grown to include 21 research centres and 12 Canada Research Chairs and brings in more than $51.2 million in funding annually. Our campuses are on Treaties 4 and 6 – the territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Michif/Métis nation. We seek to grow our relationships with Indigenous communities to build a more inclusive future.
Let’s go far, together.
GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
