UNBC will lead research of policies and issues affecting the urban-aboriginal population in Western Canada.

The university has received a $2.5-million grant to head the National Urban Aboriginal Knowledge Network.

The first step will be a meeting between UNBC, the local Native Friendship Centre and government.

First Nations Studies Professor Ross Hoffman says a call for proposals for research topics will then be issued.

"It can be initiated by academics or urban-aboriginal organizations to come up with areas they'd like to research either within a specific community in BC/Alberta or it could be multiple communities."

Research will focus on human and economic development, social cohesion and civic engagement over five years.

Students, particularly Aboriginal students, will be given a chance to participate in the research once it begins.

Photo Courtesy of UNBC

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