Governor General Visits First Nations University of Canada

On April 22, Her Excellency The Right Honorable Mary Simon the Governor General of Canada visited the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv), Regina Campus, marking a significant day filled with cultural exchange and learning.

During her visit, the Governor General spent time with Marie Campbell, the university’s Indigenous Knowledges & Wellness Coordinator. Campbell plays a vital role at FNUniv by providing cultural and spiritual guidance. Her interactions with Her Excellency highlighted the integration of traditional Indigenous knowledge and leadership within the university’s academic framework.

A central feature of the visit was Governor General Simon’s participation in the “pîkiskwêwin” podcast, an initiative by FNUniv to preserve and promote the history, language, culture, and artistic heritage of Indigenous groups. This podcast session provided her with a unique glimpse into how the university blends traditional teachings with modern media and communications, enriching students’ educational experiences.

Additionally, the visit included a tour of the university including a tour of the Indigenous Communications Arts studio. A cultural exchange marked a memorable moment when Audrey Dreaver, a noted faculty member, presented Her Excellency with a handcrafted birchbark bracelet. The gift symbolized the deep connection between the university and the rich artistic traditions of the Indigenous peoples of Canada.

Governor General Mary Simon’s visit to the First Nations University of Canada not only highlights her commitment to recognizing and promoting Indigenous education but also reflects the broader Canadian acknowledgment of the vital role that Indigenous knowledge and culture play in the educational landscape of the country.