Photo from ITK's press conference in Ottawa, ON, announcing the location of Inuit Nunangat University.
"[The] announcement of Arviat as the location of the main campus of Inuit Nunangat University is the beginning of a long-term partnership to build an institution rooted in Inuit self-determination, culture and knowledge.”
— Natan Obed, President, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
EleV Partner Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) has announced that Arviat, Nunavut will be the home of Inuit Nunangat University (INU)—the first Inuit university in Canada's Arctic. After reviewing expressions of interest from 51 communities, ITK selected Arviat for its readiness, site capacity, and alignment with the university's vision for an immersive learning environment rooted in Inuit knowledge, culture, and language.
Set to open in 2030, the main campus will serve approximately 100 students and 80 faculty and staff, with plans for knowledge centres in Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, and the Inuvialuit Settlement Region. INU will offer three core faculties focused on Inuit self-determination and sovereignty, health and education workforce development, and the strengthening of Inuktut language.
Flowing from the $50 million investment from the Mastercard Foundation announced in 2024, Canada’s federal government also announced it has allocated $50 million to support the university. As well, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated has invested $135 million;$50 million for the construction of the main campus, $50 million dedicated to student housing, and $35 million for programming. For many Inuit students, INU represents an opportunity previous generations did not have: the chance to pursue culturally grounded post-secondary education close to home, ensuring Inuit youth can access quality learning without leaving their homelands.
Why It Matters:
Inuit-led post-secondary education strengthens self-determination and affirms Inuit knowledge, language, and governance
Locating the university in Inuit Nunangat removes geographic and cultural barriers that have limited access to higher education for Inuit youth
Major investments from Inuit organizations, the federal government, and philanthropic partners demonstrate long-term commitment to Inuit youth and communities
Stay informed about EleV's work with partners to uplift Indigenous young people to live Mino Bimaadiziwin – a good life. Follow us on social:
Watch your inbox for our monthly newsletter and share with your network!
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.
