JECO
Nalunaiqsijiit: Cruise Training Program
Offered by the Government of Nunavut’s Tourism and Cultural Industries Department
Nalunaiqsijiit—“those who make things clear”—prepares Inuit participants to be cultural educators, environmental stewards, and skilled guides. The program combines classroom learning, industry-recognized certifications, and a summer field placement to launch meaningful careers in northern tourism.
Program Objectives:
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​​Earn recognized certifications and hands-on experience.
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Champion Inuit knowledge systems as a foundation for excellence.
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Build leadership, professionalism, and career pathways in a growing industry.
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Deliver mentorship, placements, and long-term employment opportunities.
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Ensure Inuit are innovators and decision-makers shaping tourism in the North.
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Gain transferable skills that are useful in many industries
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The Program
Phase 1
What to expect:
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​Expect to work hard, dedicate long hours, and immerse yourself in educational experiences. Be prepared for challenging yet fulfilling days that contribute to personal and professional growth.
Benefits: ​
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Joining Nalunaiqsijiit offers the opportunity to engage in educational travel, enhance teaching skills, and be part of a rewarding and fun learning environment. Grow personally and professionally.
Who Should Apply
Ideal for passionate educators who love to learn, teach, and travel. Must be driven to enhance skills and work hard for rewarding and fun educational experiences. You must enjoy social environments and connecting with people of all backgrounds.
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Eligibility:
Participants must be over the age of 18 and be beneficiaries of the Nunavut Agreement. A moderate level of physical fitness is required in order to work as an outdoor guide.
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Appling is simple and easy. Express your interest by sending your resume, a cover letter and the signed code of contact to the GN. Top candidates will be selected for an interview. The final cohort of twelve will receive confirmation by email and a welcome phone call.
What's needed to apply?
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Cover letter explaining why you want to participate.
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Your resume.
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Your agreement to the course code of conduct
How to do it:
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Send the three required components to cruisenunavut@gov.nu.ca
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Review the Code of Conduct here: Code of Conduct
What's next:
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Application Date Deadline: Dec 7, 2025
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Interviews: December 10-15, 2025
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Decisions: December 17, 2025
Cost and Funding
Participation in Nalunaiqsijiit is supported by the Government of Nunavut (GN) as part of its commitment to increasing Inuit leadership and employment in the tourism sector. Program costs are fully funded so beneficiaries can focus on learning, growth, and future employment—without incurring training-related expenses.
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With this investment comes an expectation of commitment, professionalism, and active participation throughout all phases of the program.
Through Nalunaiqsijiit, the GN provides funding for:
✅ Course delivery and instructional fees
✅ All required industry certifications
✅ Travel to and from training locations
✅ Accommodations during training
✅ Meals during training
✅ Daily travel per diems for travel days (as per GN travel policy)
Training Allowance Supports:
Phases One and Two:
Trainees may independently apply for a daily training allowance through Adult Learning and Training Services (ALTS).Applications must meet ALTS eligibility requirements.
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Phase Three (Placement):
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During the onboard placement, participants work directly with their assigned cruise operator to determine a daily honorarium reflective of their role, skills, and experience.
A Valued Opportunity
Enrollment is offered to selected beneficiaries who demonstrate readiness to learn, commitment to growth, and a desire to contribute to Inuit leadership in the tourism sector. With full program costs covered, participants are expected to fully engage, uphold program standards, and represent their communities with pride and professionalism.