CICan, in partnership with the Indigenous Institutes Consortium (IIC), are happy to announce the Call for Proposals for the 2025 National Indigenous Education Symposium (NIES), taking place October 26–28, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta, located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy), and home to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta Districts 5 and 6.
Economic Reconciliation in Motion
This year’s theme, Economic Reconciliation in Motion: Removing Barriers, Creating Opportunities, and Fostering Inclusive Growth, invites members to share bold and innovative practices that advance Indigenous learner success and economic reconciliation, promote entrepreneurship, support labour mobility, and elevate Indigenous-led research.
The 2025 Symposium will highlight how Indigenous institutes, colleges, CEGEPs, and polytechnics are leading solutions to key challenges – from housing and healthcare to climate resilience and economic development – grounded in Indigenous values and self-determination.
Leadership, Ideas, and Impact:
We encourage you to submit proposals that highlight your institution’s leadership, ideas, and impact under the following themes:
- Breaking Barriers: Expanding Access to Higher Education and Labour Mobility for Indigenous Learners
- Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurs and Strengthening Community-Based Economic Pathways
- Indigenous Innovation: Advancing Indigenous-led research, innovation, and knowledge creation inlcuding the role of virtual learning and AI from an Indigenous perspective
Formats for presentations this year will include Insight Hours, Spotlight Sessions, and Sharing Circles, along with inspiring keynote addresses and panel discussions.
Proposal Deadline (Extended): September 15, 2025
Notification of Acceptance: by September 19, 2025