USask and MN–S government agreement supports high-impact research with and for Métis communities

The agreement, signed in May 2024, is a first-of-a-kind partnership that outlines the commitment of both parties to establish the Métis Nation–Institute for Research and Governance (MN-IRG) at USask. Dr. Kurtis Boyer (PhD), chair in Métis Governance and Policy at the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy and director of the forthcoming institute, said the agreement will “support research that is conducted at USask in partnership with the MN–S.”   

“Indigenization is a leading priority at USask,” said USask Vice-President Research Baljit Singh. "With this agreement, we can better ensure that our research, scholarly and artistic endeavours are aligned with and impactful for the citizens of MN–S.” 

The MN–IRG builds on the relationship between USask and the MN–S government to protect and promote Métis identity, culture, values, and language, drive high-impact research initiatives and train the next generation of scholars and leaders.  

“This will be a place where community priorities are met, researchers are supported, and governments are engaged,” said Boyer.  

Providing an environment where academic freedom is central, the institute will support researchers in pursuing independent rigorous and relevant scholarly work that benefits the Métis citizens of MN–S. 

“By fostering collaboration between researchers and communities, through our government, it ensures that research delivers meaningful impact where it matters most to our people,” said MN–S President Glen McCallum.  

USask and MN–S have a history of working closely together. This agreement builds on the existing relationship between MN–S and USask, including the Memorandum of Understanding: Advancing Métis Post-Secondary Education (2019) and Agreement for Recognizing Métis Nation Citizenship (2021).  

“It’s a testament to the strong and evolving partnership between MN–S and USask,” said USask Vice-Provost of Indigenous Engagement Angela Jaime. “This agreement deepens our collaboration, ensuring that research is aligned with Métis values and directly serves the needs of Métis communities, reinforcing their governance and supporting their vision for the future.”