Nunavut Arctic College and Memorial University of Newfoundland have successfully completed negotiations of a 10-year strategic partnership to build administrative capacity, promote northern research opportunities and expand post-secondary programs available to learners in Nunavut through joint credentials with the expressed purpose of increasing Inuit employment. The new joint credentials will be degrees awarded by both the Nunavut Arctic College and Memorial University.
From left to right: Rob Shea, Associate Vice President (Academic and Student Affairs) - Marine Institute, Memorial University; Tom Nault, University Registrar at Memorial University; Cathryn Andersen, Memorial University's Advisor to the president on Indigenous Affairs, Rebecca Mearns, NAC A/Vice-President; Jesse Jacobs, NAC Director Policy & Strategic Planning.
"The goal of the agreement between Nunavut Arctic College and Memorial University is to promote and increase Inuit education and employment in Nunavut. The agreement recognizes the importance of Inuit language and culture, and emphasizes opportunities for post-secondary students and adult learners by creating relevant programs that develop the knowledge and skills we need in Nunavut, as described in the Sivummuaqpalliajjutivut section of the Turaaqtavut Mandate," said Patterk Netser, Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College
Memorial University was one of 11 institutions that submitted a proposal after the Government of Nunavut (GN) issued a call for Expressions of Interest in 2016. The university was selected by a joint committee of representatives from Nunavut Arctic College, GN's Department of Education and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
"Memorial is honoured and humbled to be chosen as the singular generational partner with Nunavut Arctic College," said Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor, Memorial University. "Our students, faculty and staff look forward to learning from our Nunavut Partners and I thank all those involved in the extensive negotiations to get us to this point. We look forward with pride to the relationships and partnerships that will evolve over the next ten years."
Memorial University has considerable experience delivering Inuit-specific bachelor programs in Inuit Nunangat, research experience in arctic and subarctic climates, and specialities in career related program development and marine training. The partners will now establish committees to implement the agreement to begin to offer joint credentials from both institutions.
Minister Netser said the Nunavut Teacher Education Program (NTEP) will be the first program to be offered joint credentials. "Building upon Nunavut Arctic College's experience in offering NTEP since 1985, and Memorial University's experience offering the Inuit Bachelor of Education program through the Labrador Institute, the new NTEP will emphasize producing graduates capable of teaching and strengthening Nunavut's bilingual education system," said Netser.
An official signing ceremony of the agreement between the two institutions is expected in fall 2019.
