Shaping the Future of Northern Post-Secondary Education Through a Unique Model

Collège nordique francophone (CNF) today unveils its 2025–2028 Business Plan, an ambitious roadmap that redefines how francophone post-secondary education is delivered in the Canadian North. Entitled Shaping the Future of Northern Post-Secondary Education Through a Unique Model, this plan marks a major milestone in the institution’s development. Through three key pillars — development, transformation and anchoring — CNF proposes a bold vision deeply rooted in northern realities: offering every learner a personalized, flexible  educational pathway connected to their community and environment. 

“We are launching a plan that completely reimagines our role in the North. This is no longer just about training; it is a vision. We want Collège Nordique to become an incubator of talent and a centre of influence for francophones here and beyond,” says Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of Collège nordique francophone. 

An Innovative Model for the North

CNF is investing in a unique approach tailored to the realities of the three Canadian territories: programs designed for very small cohorts, recognition of prior learning and competencies, and an enhanced integration of applied research, technology and Indigenous values. This educational model aims to: 

• Develop tailored learning pathways that meet the needs of northern communities and respond to evolving societal aspirations. 
• Create an ecosystem of innovation and knowledge by fostering collaboration in applied research and valuing knowledge emerging from the North.
• Support the vitality of minority cultural and linguistic communities, by fostering collaboration with Indigenous communities and strengthening connections among French-speaking populations pan-territorially.  

A Call for Solidarity and Support

In the current context of reduced federal funding, the College expresses concern about the impacts this may have on francophone post-secondary institutions in minority settings.

“The need for francophone post-secondary education in the North is very real. CNF remains grateful to the federal government for the support provided so far, and we hope this support will be restored and strengthened so that our business plan can be fully realized,” the Executive Director adds. 

The College calls on all its partners, the community and allies of the Canadian francophonie to stand in solidarity, help sustain its mission, and give francophones in the North the means to learn, contribute and thrive.

Published on November 20th 2025