Indigenous Students
From Many Nations
We are honoured to welcome students from many nations across the province and around the country, strengthening our wealth of First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge at Assiniboine. We aim to infuse cultural teachings into curriculum to ensure that Indigenous students see themselves and their realities reflected in the learning process. Our goal is that all students will acquire the knowledge and skills to be culturally competent, and gain a true understanding of Indigenous affairs, past and present, in Canada.
Experience the Difference
Assiniboine’s friendly and welcoming attitude is simply who we are. Small class sizes mean your instructors know your name and want to get to know you. Our campuses are easy to find and navigate, which means you can move between classes quickly, see friends every day and access any supports you need.
Partnerships and Connections
Through community engagement at all levels, Assiniboine strives to celebrate Indigenous cultures, develop stronger ties, improve access to study opportunities and bring learning options directly to those who prefer to learn closer to home.
Indigenous Student Welcome
We know many students will be nervous as they make their transition to college. Each year, we like to welcome new and returning students with a day filled with food, fun, prizes, entertainment and ceremony. This event gives students an opportunity to meet peer mentors, advisors, Elders and Knowledge Keepers, as well as other supports available on campus and in the community. It is a great way to get to know other students, make important connections, and helps ensure students are ready to go on the first day of class.
Our Journey: End of Year Celebration
In May, Assiniboine College, Brandon University, Brandon School Division and our Indigenous education partners hold a joint celebration of Indigenous student success. It is a chance to honour our graduates together, from Head Start programs through to post-secondary. The day begins with a pipe ceremony and honour song, followed by a Grand Entry and Pow Wow. Métis and Inuit performances round out the music and dance components, and a community-wide feast caps off the celebration.
Community-Based Programming
In addition to our campus-based programs, Assiniboine serves Indigenous students through community-based training. This allows us to customize our program delivery to suit the needs of learners and provide flexible, alternative opportunities in communities or central locations. We work with a variety of Indigenous partners throughout the province to deliver programs ranging from credential offerings to targeted programs for specific educational and employment purposes. We are proud to have partnered with more than 20 First Nation communities this past academic year.
Our Commitment
Assiniboine recognizes the unique history of Indigenous peoples and is committed to playing an active role in reconciliation. We have college initiatives that help reduce barriers to education and educational support to empower Indigenous students to succeed.