Queen’s University has announced a partnership with Kenjgewin Teg, which will offer three new Indigenous studies courses through faculty of arts and science beginning January 2022.
Located at M’Chigeeng First Nation on Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island), Kenjgewin Teg is an Indigenous owned and led educational institute with an existing partnership with Queen’s through the community-based Indigenous teacher education program.
Rahswahérha Mark Green, provost and vice-principal (academic) said that the establishment of this new partnership is a reflection of the “shared goals of both institutions”.
“The new courses will provide students with the opportunity to enhance their awareness of Indigenous perspectives on a diverse range of subjects,” says Stephanie Roy, President of Kenjgewin Teg.
Recently, Queen’s implemented an opportunity for students to obtain bachelor of arts (honours) with a major or medial in Indigenous studies, as well as a certificate in Indigenous languages and cultures.
Kanonhsyonne Janice Hill, associate vice-principal (indigenous initiatives and reconciliation), addressed how Indigenous focused education has become both a strength and a priority of Queen’s, with courses “allowing [students] to grow their understanding of Indigenous knowledge and experiences”.
There is a one-term pilot agreement from January to April 2022 where courses will be instructed remotely through the faculty of arts and science. Courses will be taught by Indigenous faculty members with hiring being done collaboratively by Queen’s and Kenjgewin Teg.
The new courses will offer Indigenous perspectives on topics including “climate change, the connection between language and identity, and the arts,” says Stephanie Roy, President of Kenjgewin Teg.
Students can now register for the courses in SOLUS for the winter 2022 term.