Inuit Nunangat University Launch Event - Photo Courtesy of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
“This is going to be a university where people who want to go to university in Inuit Nunangat will be grounded in Inuit society and also have a full spectrum of educational opportunities that include learning more about our society and our practices.”
— Natan Obed, President, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) and the Mastercard Foundation announced a partnership to enable the launch of Inuit Nunangat University (INU). As the first Inuit university in Canada, INU holds the potential to transform university education guided by the vision and values of Inuit youth and communities.
INU will provide culturally-grounded and accessible learning opportunities by and for Inuit youth in their homeland. By 2030, this university will be a transformative space, advancing Inuit leadership and innovation across sectors like healthcare, governance, and resource management.
Overview
Culturally-Grounded Education: INU’s academic framework is rooted in Inuit language, culture, and knowledge.
Community Impact: The university will act as a catalyst for economic development, job creation, and self-determination.
What Comes Next: ITK is seeking support from fundraising initiatives across private, public and philanthropic sectors to fully realize this vision, with $50 million in place through the partnership with the Mastercard Foundation EleV Program.
Why It Matters
INU represents more than a new university—it’s a movement in alignment with Inuit self-determination and empowerment. By creating opportunities within Inuit Nunangat, INU will strengthen communities and contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous future for all of Canada.
Closing the Year with Appreciation
We’re thrilled to end the year with this historic announcement, marking a new chapter for Inuit education and self-determination. Thank you for supporting our work throughout 2024—your continued commitment is invaluable.
From all of us at the Mastercard Foundation, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a peaceful Winter Solstice.
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About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world's largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and leadership. For more information please visit mastercardfdn.org.
