The Indigenous Partnerships and Pathways (IPP) program is a funding mechanism that supports UNBC in creating formal pathways for Indigenous communities to participate in decision-making processes that shape programs and services for Indigenous learners. This initiative directly supports Article 18 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which affirms that "Indigenous peoples have the right to participate in decision-making in matters which would affect their rights, through representatives chosen by themselves in accordance with their own procedures." 

Purpose and function

The IPP enables UNBC to establish collaborative partnerships with external Indigenous partners, including First Nations on whose territories the institution is located, Indigenous nations with specialized programs at UNBC, local Métis Chartered Communities, Métis Nation British Columbia, and Indigenous organizations with educational mandates. Through these partnerships, Indigenous communities can directly influence the development of programs and services that address the academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs of Indigenous learners. 

Relationship to the Office of Indigenous Initiatives (OII)

The IPP directly supports the OII's outward-facing mandate by providing the structural foundation and funding necessary to build authentic, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities beyond campus boundaries. This partnership model enables the OII to fulfill its commitment to meaningful consultation and engagement with Indigenous communities, ensuring that UNBC's Indigenization efforts are guided by Indigenous voices and priorities rather than being developed in isolation. The program creates the systemic change needed for UNBC to effectively support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit learners' success by establishing formal mechanisms for Indigenous partners to participate in institutional decision-making processes that directly affect Indigenous education and community needs.