Aboriginal students at Royal Roads University have a dedicated space to study and honour their heritage with the official opening of the Aboriginal Learning and Cultural Centre, Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk announced today.

"Reconciliation is much more than a week. It is about working collaboratively with Aboriginal people to achieve a better future built on positive and lasting relationships," said Virk. "Our investment in gathering places throughout B.C. including Royal Roads University allows Aboriginal students to celebrate their heritage in an environment that will support their post-secondary studies."

The Province invested $600,000 to transform the former boathouse and storage building into offices, classrooms and a large meeting space with waterfront views of Esquimalt Lagoon and Salish Sea. The centre - which will showcase art and culture provided by local Aboriginal communities - is a welcoming place for students and can be used for traditional and contemporary teachings and cultural activities.

"Converting an old boat-storage building into a modern and attractive Aboriginal Learning and Cultural Centre reflects Royal Roads' commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage protection," said Royal Roads University president and vice-chancellor Allan Cahoon. "One of the essential features of the building is to create a space that acknowledges and celebrates the history and culture of local Coast Salish Nations and provides a welcoming environment for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students, staff and faculty."

Along with its full selection of degree programs, Royal Roads University also offers customized training programs to equip Aboriginal students with meaningful and practical tools to help preserve their cultural heritage and manage their community resources.

"Another important aspect of the space is the strong connection to communities through Elders," said Asmahani Antoine, the new Indigenous Education and Student Services Manager at Royal Roads. "Elders have been a significant part of our consultation process, and they will continue to be active cultural advisors in our approach to education, both on campus and in their respective communities throughout British Columbia and Canada."

The building will also receive a traditional Coast Salish name at today's opening celebration. Those in attendance will vote as a group from a list of potential site-specific names developed through consultation with Elders.

The B.C. government has invested a total of $14 million since 2007 to create gathering places that reflect Aboriginal culture at our public post-secondary institutions. Gathering places are designed to enhance support services for the growing number of Aboriginal students on campuses all over B.C. They provide a welcoming environment for Aboriginal students, promote and preserve Aboriginal culture and history, and are an additional resource for the community and learners.

Learn More:

Find out more about being a student at Royal Roads University: www.royalroads.ca/

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.ba.ca