Collège Nordique joins Explore immersion program in Yellowknife, a first for N.W.T.

A cohort of 15 post-secondary students will take part in a five-week French-language immersion at Collège Nordique in Yellowknife from June 15 to July 17, 2026. Host families in Yellowknife will be compensated $1,500 each and an information session for prospective hosts is set for Jan. 29 at 5:30 p.m.

Collège Nordique will host 15 post-secondary students for a five-week French-language immersion in Yellowknife from June 15 to July 17, 2026. The offering is part of the Explore program, which introduces participants to French language and culture in an engaging setting. The college said this participation is a first for the Northwest Territories. The program combines classroom instruction, cultural activities and local excursions. Key details: - Fifteen students from across Canada will attend the five-week immersion. - Program dates are June 15 to July 17, 2026. - Students will stay with francophone host families; each household receives $1,500 as compensation. - Planned activities include morning language classes, cultural workshops and excursions such as the Frame Lake Trail, Cameron Falls and canoeing to Yellowknife's houseboats. - The program is funded through a council of Canada's education ministers and the college said it aims to introduce participants to francophone communities in the North. - An information session for prospective hosts is scheduled for Jan. 29 at 5:30 p.m., and it will be available online or in person at the college. Summary: Collège Nordique presents the Explore immersion as a way for students to gain first-hand experience of francophone life in the North and to broaden awareness that French-speaking communities exist beyond Quebec. The college is seeking host households and will hold an information session on Jan. 29; further details about participant selection and program logistics were not expanded on in the announcement.