Indigenization

Indigenization at JIBC is a commitment to understanding the historical, social, and economic conditions of Indigenous populations. With this understanding, we work to foster respect and understanding of the cultures, traditions, languages and protocols of Indigenous Peoples in the learning environment.

The Office of Indigenization was created in 2012 as a cross-institute resource for support and enhancement of Indigenization at JIBC.

Striving to meet our commitments

JIBC supports Indigenous communities by contributing to developing JIBC governance, structure, policy and procedures to establish Indigenous space and embed Indigeneity throughout our campuses.

We also promote innovations in Indigenous programming and services. For more information regarding Indigenous Initiatives, see JIBC’s Indigenization Plan.

The Indigenization Plan was identified as a strategic objective in both the JIBC Strategic Plan and the Academic Plan.

Objectives of the Office

We’ve established several objectives. They include:

1. Ensure culturally appropriate education and services for Indigenous learners

2. Increase, retain and ensure the success of those students

3. Share Indigenous culture, history, and knowledge with the JIBC community, as well as with the public

4. Ensure curriculum and policies reflect Indigenization

5. Increase our community engagement and partnerships with Indigenous communities, organizations and institutions

Indigenization is part of JIBC’s Strategic Plan

The Strategic Plan explicitly lists “Identify and offer professional programs that meet the needs of Aboriginal Peoples in BC” (item 1.4) and “Recognize the unique identity and educational needs of Aboriginal Learners, and enhance equitable and collaborative partnerships with Aboriginal Peoples to provide culturally appropriate education, training and research” (item 2.6) as part of the document.