Advancing Indigenous PSE education in Ontario: Kenjgewin Teg receives Credential Granting Authority from IAESC

M’CHIGEENG FIRST NATION (January 14, 2022) — A historical development in Indigenous post-secondary education was celebrated on Friday, January 14, as Kenjgewin Teg shared their achievement in quality assurance by becoming an accredited Indigenous Institute in Ontario from the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC). Indigenous Institutes are the third pillar in Ontario’s post-secondary education sector, and upon a successful organization review, can offer certificates, diplomas, and degrees.

“The next generation of Anishinaabe leaders will be able to walk in two worlds. They will be strong in our Anishinaabe language, culture, and connection to the Land, and they will also have the education, skills, and training to support community growth and healing,” said Stephanie Roy, President of Kenjgewin Teg. “Supporting Indigenous students in achieving culturally-relevant higher education is at the heart of what we do.”

Located on Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island), Kenjgewin Teg provides post-secondary education and training programs grounded in the Anishinaabe worldview. Kenjgewin Teg recently acquired a knowledge bundle gift of 50+ Indigenous Studies courses from the University of Sudbury and is now working to build a stand-alone Indigenous Studies program focusing on Anishinaabemowin (Ojibway language), land-based learning, governance, community development, and reconciliation with its new credential granting authority.

“Ensuring that we provide the highest quality education has been our top priority,” said Patsy Corbiere, Chairperson of the United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising. “Receiving accreditation by the Indigenous Education and Advanced Skills Council, IAESC, acknowledges our dedication to excellence in Anishinaabe education.”

“Kenjgewin Teg is meeting the unique needs of Indigenous learners in post-secondary education and training,” said IAESC Board Chair and Executive Director Laurie Robinson. “High quality programs ensure that learners are prepared to meet the conditions their communities face. It is a new era in Indigenous education.”

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For more information on this announcement, please contact:

Beverley Roy
Director of Quality Assurance
E-mail: beverleyroy@kenjgewinteg.ca