TRU, Tk'emlups partner on plans for new Indigenous master's program

Photo: TRU

Thompson Rivers University is developing a new graduate program in collaboration with Tk’emlups te Secwepemc.

At a university senate meeting last week, TRU Provost Gillian Balfour said the institution has been working with the band on plans for a master’s in Indigenous counselling.

“It’s a very exciting relationship and conversation that’s beginning to happen about how we uphold our partnership agreement and provide access to programming that meets the needs of the community,” she said.

“This has been very much something that has come to us from the community and has been an ask that we work with them on this.”

Balfour said the potential program would be offered through TRU’s School of Education and Social Work.

When asked for additional information about plans for the program, a university spokeswoman said none could be provided.

Balfour also said Tk’emlups has also inquired about partnering on adult education for band members.

“They’re wondering if that’s something that TRU can be a part of," she said. "I think that’s obviously a role that we can play."

Balfour said she was slated to meet with Tk’emlups Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir and council on Tuesday.