Arviat, Nunavut, will be the home of Inuit Nunangat University, marking a historic milestone as Canada’s first Inuit-led university. The Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) announced the selection of Arviat as the main campus location, with an anticipated opening date of 2030.

A Hub for Inuit Education

The decision to locate the university in Arviat, a community of approximately 3,200 residents on the western coast of Hudson Bay, recognizes the town’s commitment to education and its strong connection to Inuktitut, the Inuit language. Preparations are already underway to prepare the site for construction.

Site Preparation and Community Celebration

This summer, 1,800 truckloads of gravel will be laid down to prepare the construction site for the main campus and accompanying student residences. The announcement was met with widespread celebration in Arviat, including a community feast at Mark Kalluak Hall featuring traditional Inuit cuisine like fish and caribou.

Decades of Advocacy Realized

The establishment of Inuit Nunangat University represents decades of advocacy and planning by ITK, the national voice of Inuit in Canada. An information session led by Natan Obed, President of ITK, and Mayor Joe Savikataaq Jr. addressed community questions and outlined the project’s progress.

A Unique Educational Approach

Residents expressed excitement about the opportunities the university will bring to Arviat, Nunavut, and beyond. The university will prioritize holistic development, beginning with an ‘North Star Year’ focused on experiential learning and integrating Inuit language, society, and culture into the curriculum.

This foundation will evolve into a dedicated discipline of Inuit sovereignty, encompassing political science, traditional practices, and governance systems. The influx of approximately 500 new residents, including students and faculty, is expected to further bolster Arviat’s growth once the university is fully operational.