UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN
USask to launch Indigenous language certificate in Michif

Li Vyeu Norman Fleury, an Elder and Michif language keeper, emphasized protecting and revitalizing the Métis history and culture when working with other language keepers to develop the courses.

"Our Michif language is a gift from the Creator; it is a God-given language, gifted to the Métis Nation," said Fleury.

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Education, in partnership with Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, the Gabriel Dumont Institute, and Saskatoon Public Schools, is expanding its Certificate in Indigenous Languages program to include a Michif language stream. The certificate program currently includes a Cree language.

"This certificate is a great opportunity for Métis educators and individuals to increase their Michif language skills," said Dr. Julia Paulson, dean of the College of Education. "By collaborating with Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, the Gabriel Dumont Institute, and Saskatoon Public Schools, we are working to respond to the rising interest Métis youth have in reclaiming their ancestral roots."

The certificate aims to achieve two key goals: cultivate new Michif speakers who are deeply rooted in Michif and Métis culture and history, and equip those speakers with the necessary tools and skills to teach Michif to others.

"Our Métis Nation government in Saskatchewan is proud of the work that's gone into the rejuvenation of our Michif language," said Laura Burnouf, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan language minister. "It's such an important part of our history and culture and is in keeping with our distinct identity and values. With partnerships throughout the province at all education levels, including the University of Saskatchewan, we can introduce Michif to more people, giving them the methods, techniques, and tools needed to pass the language down to future generations."

The partnership helps standardize the process to ensure instructors are qualified to teach theMichif language, culture, and history comprehensively. As Michif is already being taught in early learning settings, universities, and various online platforms, the certificate program will provide clear qualifications for Michif educators. The 30-credit-hour certificate meets the requirements outlined by the Saskatchewan Professional Teachers Regulatory Board (SPTRB) for an Additional Qualification Certificate (AQC).

"Michif is a critically endangered language," said David Morin, director of Gabriel Dumont Institute's Culture and Heritage. "When a language is lost, so is a worldview. It's important to do what we can to promote, preserve, and revitalize Michif. By offering the Michif Indigenous Language Certificate, we are providing an opportunity for people to embrace the language and the Michif worldview in order to keep the language alive."

The certificate is open not only to teachers but also to anyone interested in learning and improving their fluency in an Indigenous language. For more information or to apply, visit the Certificate in Indigenous Languages website.