The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology is creating dedicated family housing on its Merritt Campus to ensure that students with young families can pursue an education.

NVIT’s student housing project will include two six-unit townhouses for families, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom units to accommodate as many as 30 students and family members. This will bring the total number of student beds on the NVIT Merritt campus to 110, with 80 student spaces for single students already on campus.

The project will provide housing primarily to Indigenous students and families living together in a supportive academic community while earning their certifications. As B.C.’s Indigenous-led institution, the project is designed with Indigenous connections and culture in mind, including gardens for native and medicinal plants. The child care facility will be operated by the Conayt Friendship Centre.

“As B.C.’s only Indigenous public post-secondary institution, the addition of this housing will enhance the overall student experience and further contribute to the success and well-being of our NVIT community, making education as accessible as possible for those learners coming from rural as well as remote Indigenous communities,” said NVIT President Ken Tourand. The housing project is expected to be completed in time for the Fall 2026.