Application fees waived for Indigenous students at U of L

Vice-Provost of Iniskim Indigenous Relations Dr. Leroy Little Bear says he wants to see more students with Indigenous backgrounds enrol.

“Too often, we hear of potential students who are wanting to apply but must decide whether they take that chance and spend the money not knowing they will qualify or use that money for necessities in their life. We cannot let that be a barrier for what could be a life-changing opportunity,” says Little Bear.

Indigenous students make up around six per cent of total enrolment, but the university has a goal of increasing that to 10 per cent by 2026.

Director of Iniskim Indigenous Relations Shanda Webber says it is an aspirational goal, but she believes it is achievable.

“It is integral we find ways to work in partnership with the Blackfoot Confederacy and surrounding Indigenous organizations and communities to eliminate barriers for students to access the university and then find success once they are enrolled. These new changes will help us create more pathways for Indigenous student success,” says Webber.

The changes are part of the U of L’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, specifically those calling to improve education, income and employment disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

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by David Opinko

Application fees waived for Indigenous students at U of L

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