Ontario Government Invests $2 Million in Algoma University’s Makwa Waakaa’igan Centre of Cultural Excellence
SAULT STE. MARIE – The Ontario government is investing $2 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) in Algoma University for the construction of Makwa Waakaa’igan, a Centre of Cultural Excellence. This centre aims to honor and celebrate Indigenous experiences, knowledge, traditions, and well-being, supporting Ontario’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
“Our government is dedicated to working with our northern and Indigenous partners to foster growth and well-being in the North and ensure a prosperous future for all,” said Ross Romano, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie. “I’m excited that we were able to secure $2 million for this project through the NOHFC and thank Minister Rickford for his ongoing support of this file. I look forward to the beginning of construction.”
Makwa Waakaa’igan will be a state-of-the-art Indigenous education facility at Algoma University, featuring classrooms, cultural areas, research spaces, an archive and library, as well as outdoor ceremonial grounds and gardens. The centre will also house a new Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute, established in partnership with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. The facility will support cross-cultural and global Indigenous teaching and learning opportunities.
“Today’s investment from the NOHFC represents a pivotal step in advancing our commitment to making reconciliation real for First Nations communities,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation. “With our support for the Makwa Waakaa’igan Centre of Cultural Excellence, we are deepening our collective understanding of Indigenous truths and fostering a space where meaningful dialogue and healing can thrive. This Centre will not only honour and celebrate Indigenous knowledge and traditions but will also serve as a valuable resource for education and collaboration for years to come.”
Students and visitors will learn about the history of residential schools in Canada and the work of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association in preserving the history told by residential school survivors and their families. Makwa Waakaa’igan will play a leading role in advancing reconciliation in Ontario and Canada by addressing the truth and legacy of residential schools, and by providing a space for sharing, healing, and collaboration.
“Makwa Waakaa’igan will be the first of its kind in the world – a Centre of Excellence focused on truth-telling, relationship building, respect, and healing,” said Joel Syrette, Director of Makwa Waakaa’igan. “The generous funding provided by the NOHFC is the final step in the realization of Makwa Waakaa’igan, which will help Algoma University deliver this Indigenous-led project focused on decolonization. We are profoundly grateful for the substantial support received from the Ontario government. This contribution brings Algoma University ever closer to realizing our vision of leading meaningful change for generations to come.”
The NOHFC fosters economic growth, job creation, and workforce development throughout the North, benefiting communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $835 million in 6,713 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging over $2.4 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 10,380 jobs.
