At the heart of our faculty is the School of Social Work, which offers French-language programs at all three university levels. These programs equip students with both theoretical and practical knowledge in social intervention, with a strong focus on the realities of francophones in minority settings. Through a critical and reflective approach, we strive to train professionals who can address contemporary challenges in social justice and equity.
One of our flagship initiatives is the Microprogram in Indigenous Child and Family Services Development – Foundations for Practice. This 9-credit program demonstrates our commitment to Indigenous francophone communities. Since the enactment of federal law C-92 in 2020, many communities have been developing their own child and family support systems. Our program provides specialized training to professionals involved in this transformation, ensuring they have the necessary foundations to support these initiatives effectively. Courses, primarily delivered online and occasionally on Indigenous territory, are taught by Indigenous professors or through co-teaching with Indigenous practitioners and faculty members from the School of Social Work.
Our francophone researchers play a key role in advancing the presence of French within our faculty. For example, Professor Sébastien Savard, an expert in community organization and social services management, focuses on practices in francophone minority contexts. His research contributes to a deeper understanding of community dynamics and effective intervention strategies tailored to minority francophone populations.
Additionally, the Groupe de recherche sur la formation et les pratiques en santé et service social en contexte francophone minoritaire (GReFoPS) is a multidisciplinary research team dedicated to studying the social and health service needs of francophone minority communities. Their work explores healthcare and social service practices, active offer training for future professionals, and the integration of research into these fields. GReFoPS plays a crucial role in improving services for francophones and developing approaches adapted to their specific realities.
We are also proud to host the CIRCEM (Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Citizenship and Minorities), a nationally and internationally recognized research center. CIRCEM stands out for its work on social, political, and cultural dynamics related to citizenship and minority issues. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, it contributes to a deeper understanding of diversity, identity, and inclusion in contemporary societies. Through collaborations with academic and community partners worldwide, CIRCEM is instrumental in promoting francophone research in the social sciences.
Linguistic and cultural diversity is a richness we deeply value. This is reflected not only in our academic programs but also in the innovative research initiatives led by CIRCEM, GReFoPS, and the School of Social Work. These collective efforts reinforce our commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking education.
Inclusion is at the core of our mission. We strive to create an environment where every member of our community feels valued and respected, regardless of linguistic or cultural background. Our efforts to promote bilingualism and support francophone initiatives reflect our dedication to building an inclusive and equitable academic community.
This month, as we celebrate Francophonie, we invite you to take part in the various activities and events organized in its honor. Together, let’s continue to promote diversity, inclusion, and the vitality of the French language within our faculty.
Let’s make our Francophonie shine!
Vicky Barham
Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences