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Mini-University Program
The Mini-University Program is a week-long summer experience that introduces Indigenous youth ages 11-17 to post-secondary learning and campus life at Western. Ran by the Indigenous Student Centre, the program offers a welcoming, supportive, and culturally grounded environment where youth can explore post-secondary learning.
Through hands-on activities, interactive sessions, and cultural teachings, participants engage with Indigenous mentors, Western faculty, and campus spaces. Youth are introduced to a wide range of academic areas and creative programming that encourage creativity, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop an awareness of future educational and career pathways after high school.
Registration Information
Registration for Mini-University Summer Camp opens in April 2026!
Mini-University will be offered in person in 2026, with 30 spots available in each program stream.2026 Program Dates
Otter Program (Ages 11-13): July 13-17, 2026 (DAY CAMP, running 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)Crane Program (Ages 14-17): August 4-7, 2026 (OVERNIGHT CAMP)
Contact Information
Mini-University Team: isc.miniu@uwo.caMini-University in Action
Discover how Indigenous youth connect with campus, culture, and future pathways through Western’s Mini-University Program. Read about the impact of this summer experience while exploring post-secondary education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Otter Program (Ages 11–13)
The Otter program runs Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., during the week of July 13–17, 2026. Transportation is provided for youth from the following communities: Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee‑Delaware Nation.Crane Program (Ages 14–17)
The Crane program runs Tuesday to Friday, from August 4–7, 2026. Participants check in during the afternoon of August 4 and stay in residence for the duration of the camp.Otter Program (Ages 11-13):
Otter programming takes place at the Wampum Learning Lodge at Western University, located at 1137 Western Road, London, Ontario.Crane Program (Ages 14–17):
Crane programming takes place at the Wampum Learning Lodge at Western University. Participants stay overnight at Ontario Hall, located next to the lodge.- Wampum Learning Lodge: 1137 Western Rd, London, ON.
- Ontario Hall: 230 Sarnia Rd, London, ON.
Mini-University Mentors facilitate fun and engaging activities such as tie-dying, wood and rock painting, slime-making, swimming, icebreaker games, and movie nights. Cultural teachings are shared throughout the week, including medicine walks, fire teachings, and other programming, all hosted by local Knowledge Keepers.
Participants also take part in hands-on, faculty-led sessions. In previous years, sessions have included Earth Science, Engineering, Astronomy, Computer Science, Indigenous Studies, Media Studies, Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, and more!
Participants also take part in hands-on, faculty-led sessions. In previous years, sessions have included Earth Science, Engineering, Astronomy, Computer Science, Indigenous Studies, Media Studies, Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, and more!
Once registration closes, we will be in touch to inform guardians if the youth they have signed up has been selected to attend Mini-University 2026.
Otter Program (Ages 11–13)
A $50 participation fee is required and must be paid in advance of the start of camp.Crane Program (Ages 14–17)
A $80 participation fee is required and must be paid in advance of the start of camp.
