New lactation station open at University of Alberta

A new lactation pod was opened at the University of Alberta on May 30, 2025. (Cameron Wiebe/CTV News Edmonton)

The University of Alberta has unveiled a new initiative aimed at helping parents on campus.

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A new lactation pod opened on Friday at the Students’ Union Building. The Mamava pod, which is unlocked using a mobile app, is a private room where students and staff can breastfeed or pump comfortably in private.

“This really represents an opportunity for us to ensure that we are demonstrating that we have spaces available for all members of our community,” said Kevin Friese, assistant dean of student health and wellness. “We recognize the diversity of our campus population, and that diversity includes students with dependents and students who parent.”

Friese said the average student age has risen over the past 15 years, and many mature and many graduate students have families.

Students and staff are able to breastfeed or pump anywhere on campus, he said, but the pod is available for those who want to do so in private.

The pod was paid for by donations, and the university said it adds to other family-friendly campus features, such as the Rutherford Library Family Corner, where students can study while their children play, and other breastfeeding, lactation and changing table locations on campus.

“Small actions like this, we know are so important to making sure that our student parents feel welcome and that we can accommodate not just them, but also their kiddos,” Friese said.