Located on the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation, the Interior Salishan Studies Centre at UBC Okanagan is a vital new hub dedicated to the restoration, revitalization and protection of the Interior Salishan languages and knowledge systems.

With only a handful of fluent speakers remaining, these languages are among the most critically endangered in Canada. The Interior Salishan Studies Centre (ISSC) brings together Indigenous scholars, students, artists and community members to reverse this decline—supporting immersive learning, Indigenous-led research and community-based collaboration.

At its core, the ISSC is a bold, place-based response to the ongoing impacts of colonialism and a powerful step toward reconciliation. We invite you to join us in transforming the cultural landscape of our university and region—empowering Indigenous peoples and working collectively for a better future.

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Our Stories

Discover the incredible people, the transformative research and unique learning experiences shaped by our Centre, told through compelling stories of innovation and impact.

Wil Sandy joins graduates from the Bachelor of Nsyilxcn Language Fluency and Bachelor of NłeɁkepmx Language Fluency programs during the procession at UBC Okanagan’s 2025 graduation ceremony on June 5.

Indigenous language degrees move us closer to reconciliation

Graduates from the Bachelor of Nsyilxcn Language Fluency and Bachelor of NłeɁkepmx Language Fluency programs walked the stage together.

NITEP launched in 1974 in response to a growing recognition that Indigenous students needed a culturally relevant approach to their education—both as learners and as future educators.

Half a century of lifting Indigenous educators across the province

UBC’s Indigenous Teacher Education Program (NITEP), celebrating its 50th anniversary, has graduated nearly 500 Indigenous educators in B.C.

 

Evangeline John wears a ribbon skirt she created in a field filled with balsam root sunflowers in Secwepemcúl’ecw. Photo courtesy of UBCO Indigenous Art Intensive.

UBCO adds Indigenous Knowledges to graduate studies programs

UBC Okanagan is the first in Canada to offer Indigenous Knowledges master’s and doctorate degrees.