The University of Northern British Columbia received $290,000 from the provincial government to assist in operating four programs as part of its Aboriginal Service Plan. The funds will be used to support the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, University 101, Indigenous student orientation and the Indigenous student recruitment program.

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives is an innovative systemic change that privileges and centers Indigenous voices, knowledge(s), and presence at UNBC. This program is pivotal in moving our relationships with northern communities forward and meeting our commitments to regional campuses and partnering First Nations communities and organizations.

University 101 is an introductory course providing an overview of university delivered over 13 weeks in community to prospective students. The course is customized to Indigenous learners, providing an introduction to the methods of academic inquiry employed in the various disciplines and an opportunity to learn and practice the study skills and learning strategies that are required for academic success. The course is most appropriate for Indigenous learners who are considering their first year of study at university, regardless of whether they are transitioning from high school or a mature student who has been away from academic study for a period of time.

The UNBC Indigenous Student Orientation consists of workshops and activities offered by the First Nations Centre at the Prince George campus in partnership with the University’s general orientation activities at each of UNBC’s campuses. It focuses on connecting first-year UNBC students with second- and third-year students to increase mentorship opportunities, foster a network of community support for Indigenous students transitioning into university and create a home away from home, and learn about important supports and services available to help students thrive in a university environment. 

The Indigenous Student Recruiter travels to all First Nations communities in the north in order to help prospective students prepare for the transition to university. The recruiter helps students understand and meet entrance requirements, develop education plans that support them through their K-12 journey, successfully navigate the UNBC application and admissions processes, select program options that support their learning preferences and access transition programs to build skills, confidence, and insight into university life.