Students at the Flin Flon campus of University College of the North now have access to a new accommodation option as they pursue their education in northern Manitoba. The university recently unveiled its inaugural student residence on campus, aiming to enhance accessibility to higher education for residents in the region.
The newly established residence, constructed primarily using portable units akin to a mining camp, is situated adjacent to the UCN campus and the Northern Manitoba Mining Academy. It features 30 rooms, a recreational area with a gym, a commercial kitchen, and a dining hall. Officials anticipate all 30 rooms to be occupied by the end of September, with the possibility of additional units being added in the future based on demand.
While the primary operations of University College of the North are centered in The Pas and Thompson, the Flin Flon campus has expanded its offerings by introducing a practical nursing diploma program and a health care aide certificate program. Additionally, the campus houses the Northern Manitoba Mining Academy, which provides training for employment opportunities within the mining sector of northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
The collaboration between UCN and the former owners of the McIlvenna Bay copper mine, Foran Mining (acquired by Eldorado Gold Corp. earlier this year), involved a joint program where academy students received on-site training at the mine. UCN President Doug Lauvstad expressed optimism that the new residence will facilitate the college’s program expansions, particularly within the mining academy.
Construction of the residence commenced in 2025 and faced delays due to the evacuation of Flin Flon following nearby wildfires in May of the previous year. The return of residents post-evacuation posed challenges in sourcing local construction crews and contractors, leading to a setback in the project timeline. The project, costing approximately $2 million, was funded by UCN, the provincial government, and federal contributions through Prairies Economic Development Canada.
Manitoba Advanced Education Minister Renée Cable commended the project for enabling northern students to acquire essential skills within their community. She emphasized the benefits of proximity to home in enhancing student success. The initiative is expected to cater to over 30 students, enabling them to receive training in Flin Flon without the need to travel elsewhere.
The opening of the student residence signifies a significant milestone for UCN and its commitment to providing educational opportunities in northern Manitoba.