IQALUIT - Twenty-one Inuit women officially became pioneers in education after receiving their Masters of Education Leadership degree Wednesday during a special convocation held on Canada Day in Iqaluit.

The University of Prince Edward Island degree is the first graduate degree program offered in Nunavut.

Valedictorian Millie Kuliktana, left, receives her ulu from Premier Eva Aariak, right, during the convocation ceremonies. - Lauren McKeon/NNSL photo

The three-year program allowed teachers to stay in the territory and study on a part-time basis through long-distance learning and face-to-face classes in Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit.

"I am very, very proud of my fellow colleagues," said graduate Monica Ittusardjuat, one of three valedictorians in the class.

For her, the degree means she and her colleagues are set to participate in shaping the future of Inuit learners at all levels, she said.

Ittusardjuat and the two other valedictorians, Millie Kuliktana and Elisapee Karetak, all commented on the hard work put into achieving their degree and the many sleepless nights.

They also thanked their families for their aid, support and patience.

The many challenges, however, were well worth it, added Ittusardjuat.

"You'll never really know who you are if you haven't overcome any challenges," she said.

The curriculum for the program was delivered in both Inuktitut and English and focused on both western and Inuit knowledge of education and educational leadership.

It was developed and delivered by the Nunavut Department of Education, Nunavut Arctic College, UPEI and St. Francis Xavier University.

Two Inuit elders, Mariano Aupilardjuk and Meeka Arnakaq, received honorary degrees during the ceremony.

"I am at a loss for words," said Aupilardjuk, through a translator.

"Education is very good. As a young generation, I encourage you to stay in school," he told the audience, adding educational partnerships between Inuit and non-Inuit are important.

Arnakaq also emphasized partnerships between Inuit and non-Inuit, in addition to stressing the importance of keeping traditional culture alive.

"Just like seaweed attached to rock, let us be attached to our culture," she said.

The masters program will be offered again in 2010.

In the meantime, joked valedictorian Millie Kuliktana, "I know we're ready for a university in Nunavut!"