The ta-tawaw Student Centre is a safe space for all First Nations, Métis and Inuit students to study, converse and relax. This centre gives Indigenous students opportunities to excel in university by having a comfortable and inclusive space. The ta-tawâw Centre is located on the first floor of the Research and Innovation Centre of the University of Regina. The meaning of the name ta-tawâw comes from the root word tawâw meaning you are welcome here, come in there is room

“Our mission, of course, is to make sure that we are a community space for First Nations, Metis and Inuit students at the University of Regina,” said John Bird, the manager of the centre.

There are many cultural events that happen throughout the year, with frequent medicine teachings and ceremonies. Community agencies will also visit the center to tell their own stories and bring their own teachings to the students of The University of Regina.

There are ceremonial and smudge teachings, cultural creativity activities and career building workshops. There is also a knowledge keeper that is available for students from Monday to Thursday. Although the centre was created to help Indigenous students and provide a safe space for them, non-Indigenous students are encouraged to attend.

“There are many opportunities for non-Indigenous students to learn and be a part of reconciliation,” said Hamilton.

The ta-tawâw Centre was originally named The Aboriginal Student Centre and located in College West room 117. Then in November of 2018, the name was changed and relocated to the Research and Innovation Centre. Approximately 30-70 students a day are either frequent visitors or just stopping through. However the list is always growing with some days being better than others.

“It feels very peaceful, if you’re going through something, there’s tools to support you,” said Mikayla Hamilton, a third year education major as well as a student administration worker at the centre. 

The centre has many services and resources available for Indigenous students including resources for mental health and academic services. Open tutoring is available on Fridays when a writing lab takes place.

They also offer The ôma Program, which is a student success program that is available for first year Indigenous students. Students in the program attend classes together and have access to tutoring, workshops and seminars in smaller cohorts.

“It’s basically a student success breach program that gets them to that second year,” said Bird.

The centre also provides emergency bursaries for Indigenous students at the university who are having financial issues and are in a bind. Ensuring that they are able to excel in their program without having to worry about the cost.

“If there is ever an issue that comes up and they need money, we have emergency bursaries,” said Hamilton. “You can come speak to our staff and we can try our best to support you through financial aid.”