Home » Future students » Indigenous student services

Indigenous student services

Mission

The Indigenous Student Service mission is to provide culturally relevant services and activities to Indigenous students using a holistic approach. We also aim to create an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment. Our services promote learning, socialization, participation, capacity development and academic success among Indigenous students.

Services offered

The Indigenous student services team offers a warm welcome, listens attentively and provides personalized support to all Indigenous students, from the moment they express interest in applying until they graduate. We build bridges between students and the appropriate services within the college and in the community. We accompany Indigenous students toward success and the development of their full potential.

The Indigenous student services also offers:

• a living environment that can accommodate up to 42 Indigenous students;
• the Maamuitaau weekly gathering with Cree Elders;
• guidance and advice for personal, family or academic issues;
• the Mîchiwâhp student lounge.

Testimonies

Three Indigenous students share their experience at CECC

Hear the voices of our indigenous students! They tell us about their experience at the Centre d’études collégiales in Chibougamau (CECC), and especially during Maamuitaau. Maamuitaau – which means “get together” in Cree – is a weekly gathering to which all indigenous students at our college are invited.

During the sharing circles, students have the opportunity to share with Cree Elders what they are experiencing during their academic and personal journeys. Workshops on learning and success strategies, then on healthy lifestyle habits, provide them with practical tools. Last but not least, the many socio-cultural activities held both at the college and in the communities contribute to cultural safety and are as many opportunities to reconnect with their own culture and proudly share it with the non-native members of our college community, building bridges.

Listen to their voices about their needs, interests and aspirations. They are a great source of inspiration for our team and for young indigenous people who wish to pursue higher education in Eeyou Istchee.

Together to enrich the student experience

The Centre d’études collégiales à Chibougamau acknowledges that it is located on the ancestral lands of Eeyou Eenou.

We encourage the participation and involvement of local Indigenous organizations and communities to enrich students’ experience. We hope that, following their college studies at the CECC, Indigenous students will bring their new knowledge home and contribute to the social, cultural and economic development of their communities.