About Us

The South Asian Canadian Heritage website project is dedicated to highlighting the many projects, research, and databases which have been undertaken by the South Asian Studies Institute and/or through its partnerships.

The South Asian Studies Institute (the Institute) at the University of the Fraser Valley brings together South Asia scholars and students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to create a nexus point for programs and activities that support our vision. The Institute fosters inter-disciplinary scholarly research, community and public engagement on issues related to South Asia and the Canadian South Asian Diaspora.

The Institute initiates, directs and implements the development, maintenance and enhancement of scholarship, research and engagement in collaboration with faculty, students and community. The Institute takes direction from UFV’s strategic goals to be a leader of social, cultural, economic and environmentally responsible development in the Fraser Valley.

The Institute is a repository of the pioneering history of the Canadian South Asian Diaspora. We also undertake much needed contemporary research that benefits members of the community, government, organizations and agencies as well as the many facets of academia.

The Institute is also a gateway for individuals, organizations and agencies in BC who seek to do business with India and who want to understand the relationships and opportunities between our two countries. This work is undertaken by the BC Regional Innovation Chair on Canada-India Partnership Development.