Vice President of Indigenous Banking at BMO Financial Group, Dan Adams being presented with a piece of Indigenous artwork by Vice-Provost Indigenous Initiatives at Lakehead University, Denise Baxter - (Photo supplied by Patrick Chondon)

A new outdoor learning space dedicated to Indigenous education is coming to Lakehead University.

The university has received $1 million from BMO to help make it happen.

The funds are being received over five years.

The new outdoor learning space is part of the university’s ongoing Gichi Kendaasiwin project.

The space will serve as a gathering place for Indigenous learners, fostering connections among students, Elders, and knowledge keepers while supporting key programs like the Indigenous Transition Year Program and the Indigenous Cultural Traditions Club.

“This partnership with BMO is a pivotal moment for Lakehead University as we deepen our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and embed the concept of Gichi Kendaasiwin – meaning ‘higher knowledge’ in Ojibwe – that is designed to create inclusive, culturally relevant spaces that empower Indigenous learners and foster community connections,” said President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Gillian Siddall. “This new Indigenous learning space will be a place for students to connect, learn, and grow, and it will serve as a lasting reminder of our dedication to Truth and Reconciliation.”

Roughly 13% per cent of Lakehead’s student population identifies as Indigenous according to the University.