The Saskatchewan First Nations Energy and Natural Resource Forum returns to Saskatoon this week with organizers emphasizing the importance of Indigenous-led discussions around resource development, partnerships and emerging technology.
The three-day gathering will bring together First Nations leaders, elders, youth, industry representatives and government officials to discuss energy projects, critical minerals and economic opportunities across Saskatchewan.
Organizers say one of the major themes this year will be artificial intelligence and the growing conversation around Indigenous data sovereignty.
Sheldon Wuttunee, CEO of the Saskatchewan First Nations Resource Centre of Excellence, says the forum is designed to ensure First Nations are leading conversations that directly affect their territories and communities.
“We’re able to do the inviting, to do the hosting, and to do the welcoming to our lands and territories here across Saskatchewan,” Wuttunee said.
A youth summit taking place on Tuesday will introduce First Nations students to STEM education and the impacts artificial intelligence could have on Indigenous communities.
Wuttunee says organizers want youth to think critically about how AI is used, especially when it comes to protecting cultural teachings and sacred knowledge online.
“We want to expose our young people… to those concepts and hopefully they can start to think critically on how we want to utilize AI and how it can work to our benefit,” he said.
The forum will also feature speakers from New Zealand discussing how Maori communities are working to protect cultural identity and traditional teachings within AI systems.
Delbert Wapass, board member of the SFNRCE, says Indigenous communities must ensure technology strengthens Indigenous worldviews rather than replacing them.
“How do we understand it and use it as an advantage to enhance our worldview,” Wapass said during the discussion on AI and Indigenous education systems.
The forum runs May 26th through 28th in Saskatoon.
(TOP PHOTO – A photo of last year’s event. Photo provided)