This is a joint news release between Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Government of Yukon.
Kwanlin Dün First Nation has created four culturally-oriented courses that youth can now take to earn high school credits. The ability to award credit for these courses is made possible by the Government of Yukon’s policy on Accreditation of Yukon First Nations Traditional Knowledge, Cultural and Language Learning.
After this policy was announced in September 2024, Kwanlin Dün First Nation suggested that credits be awarded for a pre-existing course called “Kwänlin Dän gha eech’e Honouring Identity, Celebrating Self”. Kwanlin Dün First Nation was able to show that this course aligned with the objectives laid out in the new policy. Students who completed the course in November 2024 earned four elective high school credits each. Kwanlin Dün First Nation students who completed the course the previous year were also awarded the four credits.
Youth can also earn credits through participating in Kwanlin Dün First Nation’s annual Hide, Fish and Hunt Camps and for participation in traditional activities carried out under the supervision of an Elder, family member or Kwanlin Dün First Nation staff member.
So far, Kwanlin Dün First Nation youth have acquired more than 60 high school credits through these programs.
This is an exciting project that supports connecting Kwanlin Dün First Nation students to their heritage and ancestry in a way where their identity is recognized in a real and relevant way. Awarding credits for these courses is important as it validates the learning that happens outside the box of education system. It is a critical step Kwanlin Dün First Nation is taking to create a more relevant educational experience for younger generations of our community and to support revitalization of their identity and culture.
This policy is an important part of the Yukon government's ongoing efforts toward truth and reconciliation. It uplifts the voices and knowledge of Yukon First Nations and ensures their teachings help shape the education of future generations. We are deeply inspired by the success of Kwanlin Dün First Nation’s culturally-rooted learning programs and proud to see students gaining recognition for their connection to identity, land and community. We look forward to seeing many more youth empowered by these opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.
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To earn one credit, a student needs to complete approximately 30 hours of learning and must be able to demonstrate their work.
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The policy was developed in consultation with Yukon First Nations and the First Nation Education Commission.
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Students can earn up to 12 elective credits toward their BC Dogwood Graduation Program through Yukon First Nations cultural, language and Traditional Knowledge learning activities.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
Clarissa Wall
Communications, Education
867-332-7008
[email protected]
Meribeth Deen
Communications Officer, Kwanlin Dün First Nation
867-334-2012
[email protected]