URFA gets funds to protect academic freedom at FNUC

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The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) has given $100,000 to the University of Regina Faculty Association to be used to help protect academic freedom at the First Nations University of Canada (FNUC).

Allegations that academic freedom was being compromised at FNUC arose in early 2005 after a number of senior administrators were fired and others resigned in protest, citing political interference in the running of the university.

The donation, the first of its kind given by the CAUT Academic Freedom Fund, was announced by CAUT treasurer John Baker during a press conference on May 18.

"Academics across Canada want to help our colleagues at First Nations University who have been facing unprecedented interference in the operation of their fine institution," Baker said.

"We believe is is vitally important for the future of First Nations University that their academic freedom and other rights of faculty and the rights of students and staff be respected."

"This donation will help us to continue the fight to protect the rights of faculty and to ensure that First Nations University regains its place as the premier First Nations university in Canada, if not North America," said faculty association president Dorothy Lane.