First Nations University in Canada leads education and research focused on Indigenous peoples, focusing on preserving and moving forward the knowledge systems of Indigenous, Métis and Inuit.
First Nations University (FNUNIV) in Canada is a unique institution of higher education dedicated to providing Indigenous-led research and education. Founded in 1976 by First Nations in Saskatchewan, Canada, and as the Federal University of the Saskatchewan Indians (SIFC), renamed in 2003 when the institution moved to the new Regina Campus Building, FNUNIV is now operating as the University of Regina Union University. The university’s mission is to enhance the quality of life and promote intellectual growth in Indigenous communities through culturally relevant education and research.
Strengths of research
Fnuniv is a leader in Indigenous-led research and focuses on maintaining and advancing the knowledge systems of Indigenous, Metis and Inuit. The university is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research and works with Indigenous communities, academics and government agencies to address contemporary issues affecting Indigenous peoples across Canada and around the world.
Key research areas
Activating Indigenous Knowledge and Language
First Nations University conducts research into Indigenous language, linguistics, oral traditions and cultural knowledge. These include language conservation initiatives in collaboration with Indigenous communities and the development of language learning tools and curriculums.
In collaboration with the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre, FNUNIV researchers are currently engaged in heritage and Canada-funded projects to document the languages of Saskatchewan indigenous peoples, documenting the ultimate goal of passing these languages through traditional and contemporary teaching methods, including the development of natural language processing models, machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Health and happiness of the Indigenous people
Researchers at First Nations University are studying traditional healing practices and Indigenous approaches to medicine, health and welfare related to mental health, substance abuse and trauma recovery studies. For 20 years, the Indigenous Health Research Centre (IPHRC) has been a leader in the development of Indigenous health policies, Indigenous research ethics frameworks, and community-driven health care models.
Environmental management and terrestrial research
FNUNIV researchers study indigenous land management, sustainable environmental practices, and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). The specific issues of concern are climate change adaptation, water rights, conservation, and Indigenous-led resource governance. Indigenous Knowledge and Ministry of Science researchers use First Nations University’s well-equipped laboratory space to conduct water quality surveys and study the composition of traditional soothing plants.
Indigenous governance, law, and settlement
First Nations University researchers have a long history of studying treaty rights, self-determination, and indigenous governance structures. Teachers pursue research into justice, law, and settlement efforts, including Truth and Reconciliation Committee (TRC) recommendations, and conduct community-based participatory research on Indigenous sovereignty.
Arts, media, and indigenous storytelling
FNUNIV researchers are engaged in the preservation of oral history, storytelling and digital media projects, including indigenous literature, film and contemporary art studies. The current focus of FNUNIV teachers is the role of media in shaping Indigenous identity and expression.
Research Partnerships and Collaboration
FNUNIV works closely with national and international research institutions, indigenous organizations and government agencies. Key partners include:
Canada Social Science Research Council (SSHRC). Sk-neihr. Canada Health Institute (CIHR). Triumf, the National Particle Accelerator Centre in Canada, conducts research into water quality and water purification. National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). National Collaboration Centre for Indigenous Education (NCCIE). Indigenous community-led organization. University of Regina and other academic institutions.
Research funding and support
The university receives funding from federal and state grants, private donors and Indigenous-led funding initiatives. FNUNIV researchers have actively contributed to research projects through SSHRC and CIHR grants and provided funding to focus on Indigenous research initiatives.
Community-Driven Research Approach
Fnuniv highlights the community-first research model and ensures that Indigenous voices lead the research process. This approach prioritizes.
The ethical research protocol was in line with the Tri-council policy statement on Canadian Research Ethics (TCPS2 2022), the principles of OCAP® (ownership, control, access, ownership), and other Indigenous Research Ethics Framework. A collaborative participatory methodology that respects the methods of indigenous knowledge. Knowledge mobilization to ensure that the findings directly benefit Indigenous communities.
First Nations University in Canada is at the forefront of Indigenous-led research, promoting innovation and knowledge exchange that empowers Indigenous communities. Through commitment to language revitalization, health research, environmental management, governance and arts, fnuniv plays an important role in shaping Indigenous scholarships and promoting settlement in Canada.
This article will also be featured in the 21st edition of Quarterly Publication.
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