OCDSB Launches First-Ever Inuktitut Language Course
The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) is thrilled to announce the launch of its first-ever Inuktitut language course at Ottawa Technical Secondary School. Beginning in February 2025, this groundbreaking initiative marks a crucial step in the OCDSB's commitment to Indigenous language revitalization and education.
The OCDSB celebrated the official opening of the course on February 3, 2025. This event, rich with cultural pride and community spirit, marked a significant achievement in the journey toward Indigenous language revitalization and educational equity.
Former Indigenous Education representative for the Ministry of Education, Roman Mitchell, highlighted the 10 years of effort leading to this moment, recognizing retired Superintendent Dorothy Baker's advocacy for Indigenous language credits. The celebration brought together Inuit students, families, educators, and community members, to honour the launch of this groundbreaking course. Elders and Inuit knowledge keepers shared traditional stories and songs, emphasizing the importance of preserving Inuktitut for future generations. Cultural performances and heartfelt speeches underscored the deep connection between language, heritage, and identity.
This milestone was made possible through the valued and sustained advocacy of many key contributors, including the OCDSB's Indigenous Education team, the Indigenous Education Council, community partners, and the Uqausilirijiit Circle. Their collaboration and unwavering commitment to language preservation and student success played an essential role in making this initiative a reality.
The launch was seen as a long-overdue recognition of the importance of Inuit language and culture in education. This initiative is part of the OCDSB’s broader efforts to support Indigenous education and promote reconciliation. By offering this course, the Board demonstrates its dedication to ensuring that Indigenous languages thrive.
As the Inuktitut course begins its first semester, the OCDSB and its community partners look forward to the positive impact it will have on students and families. The event stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to empower Indigenous students and foster cultural revitalization through education.
“This event represents both a milestone and a promise,” said an attendee. “It’s a commitment to honouring Indigenous knowledge and ensuring that our languages and cultures are sustained for generations to come.”
Course Details:
Designed as an introductory course, students will develop foundational skills in oral communication, reading, writing comprehension, and fluency in both syllabics and roman orthography. The curriculum will incorporate engaging activities that celebrate and promote Inuktitut culture, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Inuit heritage. While initially offered as a Grade 9 language course, this valuable opportunity is open to students from all grade levels. Furthermore, the successful completion of this course may be used as a substitute for the French language credit requirements for the Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC) and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
The new introductory course builds foundational skills in oral communication, reading, and writing, while immersing students in Inuit culture, helping to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of their heritage. The course is open to students across all grade levels and may also be used as a substitute for the French language credit requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC) and Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
This course offering transcends traditional language learning. It represents a profound commitment to fostering cultural revitalization and supporting Inuit students within the OCDSB community. By offering this course, the OCDSB demonstrates its dedication to reconciliation through education and ensures the continued success of Indigenous language programs.