Jun 21, 2019
Vancouver, BC – snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓/Langara College is proud to launch an Indigenous Upgrading Program (IUP) in partnership with Musqueam. The objective of the program is to develop an upgrading curriculum that facilitates successful transition to post-secondary studies, while incorporating Musqueam knowledge and learning/teaching methods.
This program was developed after substantive discussion with representatives from Musqueam. It is a key part of the research project funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) last year. A second phase of the project will see the launch of an IUP program with our urban indigenous partner Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA) in 2020.
The successful launch of the IUP is the direct result of many acts of reconciliation. College faculty in Math, English and Science have joined a working group that includes, administrative support, curriculum writing, and tutoring,” said Rick Ouellet, Director, Indigenous Education and Services.
This group of College employees works closely with Musqueam representatives who have expertise in education, culture, history, and protocol. A number of silent partners have made significant contributions to the program, including College staff who have made donations of time and resources in the development phase.
The delivery of the program has recently been supported by a generous donation of $100,000 from RBC Royal Bank. “This is a significant contribution, not only for the enhanced support it provides, but for the opportunity for RBC to join innovative research with a growing expertise in reconciliation through education,” added Ouellet.
“RBC Royal Bank is a supportive and contributing partner to many programs at Langara,” said Moira Gookstetter, Executive Director, Langara College Foundation. “Their support will help us grow the IUP and directly assist the students that need it.”
Learn more about the special relationship between Musqueam and Langara College here.
About Langara College
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, Langara College provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies education to more than 21,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path. Langara is also known as 'house of teachings', a name given to it by the Musqueam people on whose unceded traditional territory the College is located. Langara is celebrating its 49th year on West 49th Avenue with Beyond 49, an integrated celebration, alumni engagement, and fundraising campaign to reconnect with alumni, and raise funds for student support and important College initiatives.
Learn more.
Mark Dawson
Manager, Public Affairs
604.323.5702
mdawson@langara.ca
