The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) announces three-year, $500,000 investment from ScotiaRISE to create bursary.
“The partnership with Scotiabank and the Pathways to Success Travel Bursary will enrich First Nations University of Canada students’ learning experiences by providing opportunities for provincial, national, and international travel. Experiencing the world beyond our campuses deepens learning, inspires lifelong networks and friendships, promotes personal and professional development, motivates and sharpens resolve for program completion. We are truly grateful for this gift, and I look forward to seeing it positively impact the lives of FNUNiv students. Gitchi-miigwetch,” expressed FNUniv President Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann.
ScotiaRISE is from Scotiabank’s $500 million community investment initiative.
“Supporting Indigenous youth by removing barriers to educational attainment is essential to helping them develop the skills they will need for their chosen careers and achieving their full potential,” said K.D. Singh, District Vice President, Saskatchewan South, Scotiabank. “We are proud to offer the Scotiabank Pathways to Success Travel Bursary to help ensure FNUniv students can fully participate in experiences that strengthen both their academic and personal growth.”
The new Scotiabank Pathways to Success Travel Bursary aims to remove some financial barriers for Indigenous students who need to travel for academic, professional, cultural, or research opportunities.
Tyrone Perrault, FNUniv student knows first-hand the impact of travel opportunities.
“Opportunities like this make all the difference,” explained Perreault. “For many of us, the challenge isn’t a lack of ambition — it’s the cost of getting there. With support from this bursary, we can step into new spaces, represent our communities, and grow in ways that will shape the rest of our lives.”
Many Indigenous students incur travel costs and that can be a major obstacle in expanding opportunities.
These fees sometimes hinder students from partaking in activities that could change their careers, strengthen cultural connections, or advance their studies.
This bursary will be available for students in the following areas: Academic Travel – attending courses or semesters not offered locally; Professional and Networking Trips – accessing internships or industry events; Cultural and Community Engagement – participating in land-based learning and cultural exchanges; Research and Advocacy – presenting Indigenous knowledge at conferences.