(Image Credit: Image: UNBC)

By Dave Branco

New BEd program in Nass Valley targets teacher shortages in Northern B.C.

Mar 10, 2026 | 1:50 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – A new partnership in northwest B.C. is aiming to address teacher shortages while creating opportunities for students to study close to home.

The Wilp Wilx̱o’oskwhl Nisg̱a’a Institute and the University of Northern British Columbia are launching a community-based Bachelor of Education program in Gitwinksihlkw starting this fall.

The one-time cohort will support 10 to 15 local students as they complete the 20-month elementary education program, primarily at the institute’s campus in the Nass Valley.

The initiative was developed with Nisga’a School District 92 to help address ongoing teacher shortages in northern and rural communities and to encourage more Indigenous educators to enter the profession.

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Students will complete practicums in schools across the Nass Valley before graduating with a UNBC Bachelor of Education and becoming eligible for B.C. teacher certification.

Provincial officials say the program will strengthen local schools by preparing future teachers to learn and teach in their own communities.