Expanded gathering place supports Indigenous culture on campus

Space re-opens this September

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. 

Read the full release on the BC Government News website. 

Quotes

Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation –

“It is often very difficult for students to be away from their territory, traditional knowledge keepers and loved ones while pursuing higher education. Having access to a culturally safe space and extra supports will greatly benefit Indigenous learners at Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus.” 

Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo –  

“We’ve been taking action to help people in Nanaimo, like funding student supports at Vancouver Island University. More space at Shq’apthut will help Indigenous students’ campus experience, for better community building and supporting education.”  

Deborah Saucier, president, Vancouver Island University – 

“An expanded Shq’apthut is something I have dreamed of since I started at VIU. I’m excited to attend and participate in the enhanced learning opportunities and events that will be possible in the new space. I’m also looking forward to visiting the Elders in residence in their new space. This building is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to building stronger relationships with Indigenous communities in the regions we serve and doing more to honour Indigenous students, employees and communities.”

Leah Vaisanen, Indigenous students’ representative, VIU students’ union –

“Shq’apthut is my safe space on campus. It’s where I started my journey at VIU. As a mature student, I knew I could always go there to get the support I needed. If you’re feeling lonely, there’s always someone there to say hello to. Having a ceremonial space is going to bring culture back to campus and having the Elders there all in one space is the most important part. Elders play such a huge role in our campus experience and knowing the support is there is a comfort to many Indigenous students.”