Indigenous students at Vancouver Island University (VIU) now have access to more space for ceremonial and support services with the opening of the newly expanded space in the Shq’apthut (a gathering place) building on campus.  

“This building provides a dedicated space for Indigenous students where cultural, academic, recreational and social activities are promoted and celebrated,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “These spaces are supporting the learning experiences of Indigenous students and positively impacting the university community as a whole. We are thrilled to help VIU in providing a space that welcomes students to come together, learn and reflect on their identities.”

The expanded gathering place includes a ceremonial space, Elder-in-residence offices, an upgrade to existing kitchen amenities to support cultural events and ceremonies, and universally accessible washroom facilities, heated and cooled by VIU’s district geo-exchange energy system. Updates to the exterior design and landscaping are scheduled to be complete in spring 2025, and will celebrate and honour Indigenous culture.  

“When I think about Shq’apthut, the word Semélshun – clearing a path – comes to mind. It’s going to bring comfort to our First Nations students,” said Xulsimalt – Gary Manson, an Elder-in-residence from Snuneymuxw First Nation, VIU. “It’s part of the expanding footprint of Indigenous culture on campus – first came the Elders-in-residence, then the first phase of Shq’apthut, then the totem poles. With the new cultural part of the building, we have the space to do dancing and drumming. Being able to showcase our culture to the community helps, considering the 150 years of suppression that we come from.” 

As Indigenous student enrolment increases at VIU, this expansion not only addresses the crucial need for cultural spaces on campus in which Indigenous students can celebrate their history, values and traditions, but also helps enhance the on-campus learning experience for the entire VIU community.  

With a total contribution of $4.2 million between VIU and the Province to expand Shq’apthut, this project is part of the Province’s lasting commitment to strengthen relations and advance reconciliation with the Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia, and to support Indigenous students throughout their educational journeys.  

Quick Facts: 

• The Province has provided $3.8 million toward the $4.2-million project. VIU provided $400,000.  
• VIU’s Nanaimo campus is located on the territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. 
• In 2023-24, 1,585 students were identified as Indigenous, 12% of VIU’s total student population of 13,618. 
• More than 21,025 students at public post-secondary institutions were identified as Indigenous in 2022-23. 

Learn More: 

To learn more about Vancouver Island University, visit: https://www.viu.ca/ 

A backgrounder follows.