FNUniv Welcomes New Multi-Year Funding Agreement with the Province

Regina, SK – The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) welcomes the Government of Saskatchewan’s announcement of a new multi-year funding agreement that will provide post-secondary institutions with approximately $250 million in additional operating funding over the next four years.

The agreement creates long-term funding stability by increasing base operating grants by three per cent each year. It also makes permanent the one per cent grant increase introduced in 2025–26. In addition, the commitment to student affordability — limiting annual tuition increases to between zero and three per cent — further strengthens access to post-secondary education across the province.

FNUniv President, Mizowaykomiguk paypomwayotung, Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann, says the agreement represents a meaningful investment in the future of Indigenous learners.

“By investing in Indigenous-led education, the government is investing in better life outcomes for our learners, especially for the Indigenous peoples we serve,” said Dr. Ottmann. “We welcome this announcement and celebrate this investment — which will support us in continuing to make a difference in our community and across Canada.”

With predictable and stable funding in place, FNUniv will continue uplifting students, Elders, alumni, and communities through teaching, research, language revitalization, and ceremony. The agreement also provides the financial certainty needed for long-term planning, allowing institutions to focus on delivering high-quality, culturally grounded education that prepares students for success in the workforce.

All publicly funded post-secondary institutions — including FNUniv — will sign a joint Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Saskatchewan. The MOU will take effect on April 1, 2026, and conclude on March 31, 2030. It will outline shared objectives, accountability measures, and long-term planning expectations for the sector.