TRU and FNHA sign MOU to advance First Nations health and education
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and Thompson Rivers University (TRU) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalizes a shared commitment to advancing First Nations health and wellness through education, research and community collaboration across British Columbia.
The three-year agreement establishes an overarching framework for cooperation between TRU and FNHA, focused on improving health outcomes for First Nations communities while strengthening culturally informed education and training opportunities.
“This agreement brings together TRU and the First Nations Health Authority in a powerful way, connecting education, research and community priorities to advance First Nations health and wellness, and creating meaningful opportunities for learners and communities alike. Together, we are building something that will make a lasting difference for the people we serve,” said TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Airini.
The MOU outlines a commitment to co-develop programs, research initiatives and services that align with diverse First Nations perspectives on wellness, grounded in community, regional and Nation-based priorities. It emphasizes key principles such as mutual respect, reciprocal accountability, shared learning and the integration of Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.
Through this partnership, FNHA and TRU will work together to:
- Expand education and training opportunities for future health care professionals
- Support culturally safe, community-based learning experiences
- Advance research guided by First Nations data sovereignty governance principles, including OCAP®
- Strengthen health human resources in First Nations communities
- Promote anti-racism and equity in the health care system
A key initiative under way includes a nursing education pilot that offers BScN students immersive, culturally grounded learning experiences in partnership with First Nations communities. It’s about creating learning experiences that are shaped by community priorities and that honour First Nations knowledge and healing practices.
“I’m encouraged by the potential of this work to support First Nations people entering the health system, strengthen local capacity, and help build systems of care that are rooted in respect, humility, and the lived experiences of our communities,” said Monica McAlduff, Chief Executive Officer of the First Nations Health Authority.
The partnership is guided by shared principles, including a commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), affirming First Nations rights to self-determination, free, prior and informed consent, and authority over matters affecting their health, knowledge and communities, ensuring that collaboration respects First Nations rights, knowledge and governance.
TRU and FNHA will meet regularly throughout the agreement to review progress, strengthen collaboration and identify new opportunities to support First Nations health and education.
Thompson Rivers University is leading in sustainability. Learn more about TRU’s contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.