“Since the board has been dissolved and reforms are being made, as requested, the Wall government must indicate their support for this institution,” McCall said. “This is particularly important in light of the federal government’s announcement today that they will follow the Wall government’s lead and withdraw more than $7 Million in funding FNUniv. Funding from both governments comprises nearly half of the university’s operating budget, and if this is not reinstated, the viability of the institution will be at stake.”
“One has to ask: Did the Wall and Harper government want to get this valuable institution back on track, or were they looking for an excuse to shut down this university for good?” McCall asked.
“The mission of the First Nations University is as valid today as it was 34 years ago at the founding of the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, or when Prince Edward attended the grand opening of FNUniv in 2003,” McCall said. “First Nations University has been a critical partnership for building Saskatchewan’s future—one that has seen the education of thousands of students and the development of First Nations capacity. At its best, it has brought the people of Saskatchewan closer together in understanding and respect. It should be strengthened and supported, not scrapped.”
“The Canadian Association of University Teachers has indicated that they are encouraged with progress that is being made and that they are prepared to lift their censure of the university. The FSIN has indicated a very strong commitment to addressing concerns around governance and financial accountability. Most importantly, the students at First Nations University have demonstrated their dedication, commitment, and overwhelming desire for the continuation of the institution,” McCall said.
“Unfortunately, recent remarks by the Premier suggest that the government is looking for an excuse to dismantle the First Nations University for good. This would be a mistake. The Wall government must show their support for the students and the faculty and staff at First Nations University and commit to reinstating funding. And they should call on their federal Conservative cousins to do the same,” McCall concluded.
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