The areas of collaboration outlined in the three-year agreement include cultural resources, outreach programming and facility use at both Wanuskewin and USask.
“Indigenization is a pillar of our university plan, and our close relationship with Wanuskewin supports our commitment to transformative decolonization, leading to reconciliation,” said USask President Peter Stoicheff. “This memorandum of understanding is the embodiment of that commitment to collaborate, and a testament to the strong partnership between USask and Wanuskewin.”
The first MOU between USask and Wanuskewin was signed nearly two decades ago in March 2002. It confirmed an intent to work together to reach common goals and to develop joint initiatives including land and place-based education initiatives and cultural awareness programs with science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) colleges and departments.
This MOU restates, recognizes and celebrates the longstanding relationship between Wanuskewin and USask, and looks forward to nurturing and sustaining a relationship for years to come.
“By continuing our relationship with the University of Saskatchewan we affirm our commitment to growth and reconciliation. By building partnerships in connection to cultural and educational resources we, in turn, are strengthening our community. As we move towards UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) designation, we are proud to have such strong support from our university peers,” said CEO of Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Darlene Brander.
Wanuskewin Heritage Park Authority is a non-for-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors that consists of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous members. The directors are appointees from the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, Meewasin Valley Authority, municipal, provincial and federal governments, the University of Saskatchewan, as well as members-at-large.