First Nations University awaits news on federal funding for new Prince Albert campus

The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) is still waiting for news from the federal government on funding for a new building in Prince Albert, Sask.

The university applied to Infrastructure Canada's Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program last February. The program provides funding toward green and accessible retrofits, repairs, or upgrades, and new construction.

FNUniv president Jacqueline Ottmann said the university asked for $25 million for the new building.

"Once we do hear if it is a yes, if we do get the green light to begin, we can begin construction very quickly," she said.

"It's really up in the air right now. I'm just hoping that we hear soon and that it's a positive response."

She said the build will take about two years to complete once work starts. The university previously applied for GICB funding for the building in 2021 but was unsuccessful.

Brian Hardlotte, grand chief of the Prince Albert Grand Council, said in a statement that the university has full support from the grand council in its bid for federal funding. The grand council represents 12 First Nations in central and northern Saskatchewan.

"Securing federal funding for the FNUniv northern campus goes beyond infrastructure," Hardlotte's statement said. 

"It is a commitment to the future of Indigenous education, reconciliation and our collective future. We stand ready to work alongside the federal government to realize this vision."

The university has committed $8.35 million of its reserves to the project, secured a $10.99 million mortgage, and has a $5.5 million fundraising target.

New location needed, says president

The university has three campuses: in Regina, Saskatoon and the northern campus in Prince Albert. Right now the northern campus enrolment is just under 400 students but is expected to grow to at least 600 within the next decade.

Ottmann said it has been "apparent for a few years" that there is a need for a new location for the campus in Prince Albert. Ottmann said the current location downtown is too small to hold community events. These, she said, are important to building a community with the students.

Along with that, there's a need for adequate space for elders. 

"Our elders are very important for students in terms of support and the ceremony that they facilitate for the entire community, so there are significant benefits," she said.

The FNUniv Northern Campus Student Association did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publishing.

The City of Prince Albert sold two hectares of land to the university for $1 for the proposed new building. The land is on the southwest outskirts of the city, adjacent to 10th Avenue West and 28th Street West. Ottman said it's an ideal location near an athletic facility, a hospital and a future playground.

"This is also a demonstration of the importance of supporting Indigenous Peoples and being in an authentic partnership with people," she said.

City keen on economic benefits

Carolyn Carleton, economic development manager for the City of Prince Albert, said in a statement that the proposed building has significant economic potential for the area, including construction jobs and increased demand for housing, dining and other services.

"First Nations University has the potential to generate new opportunities for local businesses and enhance the region's tourism sector," she said. 

"Prince Albert stands poised to become an educational hub, drawing talent and resources that will contribute to the city's economic growth and prosperity."

Infrastructure Canada said in an emailed statement that it doesn't share details on individual applications due to confidentiality reasons. Submitted project proposals, it said, are assessed based on eligibility and merit.

The statement acknowledged that there is an infrastructure gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

"We will keep working collaboratively with partners to support meaningful investments in infrastructure projects that deliver for communities across the country," the statement said.