Image
Image Caption
The Iniskim Centre at Mount Royal University in Calgary is turning 10 and is marking the occasion this afternoon with bannock and cake.
The centre is just one more way MRU is working to meet the needs of Indigenous students.
In January 1993, the Aboriginal Education Program operated by Mount Royal College (at that time) began the College Preparation Program.
A study undertaken by the Calgary Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee had determined such a program was needed to help Indigenous students prepare for post-secondary education.
The original task force continues to be a key resource for community consultation and the establishment of the program directives.
In January of 1994, the participants in this group formed the Calgary Aboriginal Education Centre Society and evolved into the Circle of Advisors for the program.
There has been much growth since then including the Medicine Trail program and the Aboriginal Science and Technology program. In 2007, an Indigenous housing program was set up and there are plans to expand it.
There are also hopes to increase the Indigenous enrolment to seven per by 2025. Right now, Indigenous students comprise 4.7 per cent of MRU’s student body.
When Iniskim Centre was opened March 21, 2007, the launch was attended by numerous dignitaries including the Chiefs of the Treaty 7 Nations and Premier Ralph Klein.