About Us

We know that there are effective support strategies that can be implemented to ensure success. These include, providing one on one counselling for program and course selection, smaller class sizes, as well as personal issues; having an Elder/Knowledge keeper onsite, including pimatisiwin our way of life in all aspects of programming.

maskêkosihk University’s foundation will be our Cree Language and Culture and will be interwoven in all programs. This will ensure that our Cree language is preserved, revitalized, and maintained. We will be a dedicated institution to preserve and promote the Cree language, traditions, and knowledge systems.

We are a Cree led University.

A Message from Chief

tansi,

My name is Cody Thomas and it is my pleasure to welcome you to the new maskêkosihk University website.

The Cree name for Enoch is maskêkosihk (pronounced Muss-Kay-Go-Sik) and translates as ‘people of the land of medicine’.

It is with great anticipation as Enoch Cree Nation continues to move forward with this constant change of technology, climate changes, and social economics of our world. Coming from a place of humbleness, honours and truth, with the attitude that we need to be “the change” and “work together”, not just as “leaders” but as “family members” in the community. To ensure that our people’s voices are being heard and breaking the silence that colonization has held over our people since the settlers came to our land we now call Canada.

Reconcili-action is breaking the cycle of silence, and intergenerational trauma is promising for the future generations of our people. It’s vital that not only the leadership be on this page but that the people be with them to make this change. A change that will send rippling effects through time of generations to come. It can be easier said than done for some and for others it will be an understanding of time and healing. Knowing that the outcome of this change will be so powerful and will impact even our youth today. We need to recognize that we are spirits learning our ways in human form. That everything we do today affects our tomorrow with either amazing results or consequences. Unity in numbers better than being divided. With good intentions for the better of our people.

Let’s continue to move forward by building a new university to leave a legacy for our people.

Our Commitment to Education

At maskêkosihk University, we prioritize effective support strategies for student success.

Personalized Support

We offer one-on-one counseling for program selection and personal issues, ensuring that every student receives the attention they need to thrive. Smaller class sizes foster a more engaging learning environment.

Cree Language Focus

Our foundation is built on preserving and revitalizing the Cree language and culture. We integrate these elements into all programs, ensuring that our traditions and knowledge systems are maintained.

Cree-Led Language

As a Cree-led institution, we are dedicated to promoting our cultural heritage and providing a vibrant learning environment. Join us in celebrating and advancing Cree traditions in education.

Our Rich Educational Journey

Since 1993, Enoch Cree Nation has taken significant strides in education, beginning with taking control over their Kindergarten to Grade 12 programs. With a vision for lifelong learning, the nation is proud to announce the approval of maskêkosihk University by Chief Thomas and his Council on September 3, 2024. This new institution will unify various adult education programs, providing recognized credentials to our community. In January 2025, we launched basic Cree classes, integrating fine arts into language learning. Accomplished artist Don Ward Jr. leads painting sessions while our Cree instructors teach essential vocabulary related to colors, weather, and art tools, fostering a deep connection to our cultural heritage.

Our Vision

To be a world-renowned First Nation institution that empowers peoples through education, research, and community engagement.

Our Mission

To provide a holistic postsecondary education that integrates traditional knowledge, contemporary disciplines, and fosters the leadership and self-determination of Enoch Cree Nation. Given that, our mission is to provide a holistic postsecondary education it is vital that we are dedicated to the educational, cultural and socio-economic development of the nation.

Our Goals

Increase access to higher education for First Nations students.
Develop and offer programs that incorporate Indigenous knowledge and methodologies.
Foster research initiatives that address First Nations issues and contribute to global Indigenous scholarship.
Build partnerships with First Nations communities, organizations, and other educational institutions.
Leave a legacy for future generations

Community Feedback

We’ve listened! Your voices are shaping maskêkosihk University. Our recent surveys at community meetings show strong support for Cree language and culture. This feedback is driving our curriculum development and the implementation of our evening Cree language course, building on student success in Cree language studies.