Mini-University Program

mini u 2024

Registration opens in April 2026 for Mini-University Summer Camp!

This year’s Mini-University summer camp will be offered in-person for Indigenous youth ages 11-17. There will be 30 spots available in both the Otter program (ages 11-13) and Crane (ages 14-17.)  

2026 Dates:

Otter (Ages 11-13): July 20th-24th, 2026 (DAY CAMP running 9:00am-4:00pm)

Crane (Ages 14-17): August 4th-7th, 2026 (OVERNIGHT CAMP)

Contact Info:   

Mini U Team:  isc.miniu@uwo.ca  

The week-long Mini-University program at Western University introduces Indigenous youth (ages 11–17) to post-secondary living and experiences. It is administered by the Indigenous Student Center. The age groups are exposed to university-style lectures with a variety of topics and cultural teachings through creative programming, which also helps them develop an awareness of the various career options following high school.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of these camps?

OTTER (Ages 11-13):

The Otter program will take place Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, during the week of July 20-24. Transportation will be provided for youth from the following communities: Oneida Nation of the Thames, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, and Munsee-Delaware Nation.

CRANE (Ages 14–17):

The Crane program will run Tuesday to Friday, during the week of August 4–7. Youth will check in the afternoon of August 4th and will stay in residence for the duration of the camp.

Where will the camp take place?

OTTER (Ages 11-13):

The Otter program will take place at the Wampum Learning Lodge at Western University. The Wampum Learning Lodge is located at 1137 Western Rd, London, ON.

CRANE (Ages 14–17):

Crane’s programming will take place at the Wampum Learning Lodge at Western University. The Crane group will stay overnight at Ontario Hall located next to the lodge.

The Wampum Learning Lodge is located at 1137 Western Rd, London, ON.

Ontario Hall is located at 230 Sarnia Rd, London, ON.

What types of activities and experiences will the youth participate in during the camp?

Mini U Mentors facilitate fun and engaging sessions, including tie-dying, wood and rock painting, slime-making, swimming, icebreaker games, movie nights, and more. Sessions include cultural teachings shared during medicine walks, fire teachings and when connecting with local Knowledge Keepers. Throughout the week, multiple faculties at Western offer hands-on experiences with insightful information. In the past, key sessions included: Earth Science, Engineering, Astronomy, Computer Sciences, Indigenous Studies, FIMS, Arts & Humanities, Health Science and more!

When will I be notified if the applicant has been accepted to attend the camp?

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.

Are there any costs associated with attending the camp?

OTTER (Ages 11-13):

The Mini-University Otter program requires a $50 participation fee. This fee must be paid in advance to the start of camp.

CRANE (Ages 14–17):

The Mini-University Crane program requires a $80 participation fee. This fee must be paid in advance to the start of camp.