REGINA, Sask. — The Ewikīwiyāhn (e-we-key-we-yawn) Indigenous Teachings and Healing Program in provincial adult correctional facilities is expanding.
By helping offenders address the factors that contribute to criminal behaviour and prepare for life after release, the program supports rehabilitation, reduces the likelihood of reoffending and helps build stronger communities across Saskatchewan, according to Sask. Community Safety.
Ewikīwiyāhn is an Indigenous-led program that combines traditional teachings with practical life skills to support personal growth and successful reintegration. The 15-session curriculum was created with guidance from Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Indigenous community members. The program incorporates teachings, such as the Medicine Wheel and Seven Grandfather Teachings, and it promotes healing from intergenerational trauma while strengthening cultural identity, the ministry says.
The Government of Saskatchewan is allocating nearly $50,000 in 2026-27 to support the next phase of the program. Phase Two is now underway, focusing on training cultural co-ordinators to deliver the Ewikīwiyāhn program in correctional facilities across the province. Funding will support training, mentorship and the development of program resources, helping establish a consistent and sustainable model for delivery across Saskatchewan's adult correctional system. Sask. Community Safety states in a press release.
Phase One was successfully piloted in March 2026 at the Whitespruce Provincial Training Centre, with virtual participation from the Prince Albert Correctional Centre. Participants reported stronger life skills, improved self-awareness, enhanced emotional regulation and Phase Two aims to ensure consistent delivery to build long-term capacity within Saskatchewan's correctional system, says the ministry. The expansion advances a vision first identified by Elders and Knowledge Keepers to create a structured Indigenous teachings and healing program for Saskatchewan's adult correctional facilities, according to the release.
"It has been an honour to bring practical life skills together with traditional knowledge in creating Ewikīwiyāhn, a first-of-its-kind Indigenous life skills program firmly grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing, Indigenous ways of doing and trusting in the process,” Indigenous Program Developer and Facilitator Vanessa Wolfe said.
“Designed to be accessible and adaptable, Ewikīwiyāhn can be delivered in person, virtually or through a blended learning model. It creates a sacred space for healing, learning, connection, understanding and awareness, while providing participants with meaningful tools to move forward in their lives.
"At its heart is a foundation of identity, culture, connection and reclamation. Ewikīwiyāhn carries forward the vision and knowledge of our Elders and those who came before us, creating space for people to reconnect with who they are, where they come from and the strength and resilience they carry within themselves."
