"Through the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship, we unite as Knowledge Keepers, community leaders, academics, and the next generation of land stewards, weaving together the threads of tradition and innovation."
— Garry Merkel, Tahltan Nation, Director, Centre of Indigenous Land Stewardship
A transformative initiative is taking root at the University of British Columbia (UBC) with the launch of the first Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship (BILS) degree in Canada. Co-developed by Indigenous leaders and UBC's Faculty of Forestry, this first-of-its-kind degree weaves together Indigenous knowledge systems with courses in ecological sciences, governance, law, economics, and business management. Students will gain hands-on experience through field-based courses designed to prepare the next generation of land stewards.
For student Drew Brown from the Heiltsuk First Nation, the program supports him to integrate culture and post-secondary education. "I began to understand that land is not just a physical space. It's also law, governance, and the foundation of our self-determination," reflects Brown, who grew up learning from Elders in the Great Bear Rainforest.
Why It Matters:
Indigenous communities are reclaiming stewardship of their traditional territories and advancing self-determination
The program creates pathways for Indigenous youth to pursue careers that honour their cultural connections to the land
By 2028, three community learning hubs will make education accessible across British Columbia
Through a contribution from the Mastercard Foundation EleV Program, Indigenous students can also receive financial support, making the program more accessible. This investment empowers graduates to strengthen Indigenous governance and environmental sustainability for generations to come.
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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.
