Office of the Premier
The funding will support a variety of activities, including peer mentoring programs, community and research internships, and a teacher certification program to increase the number of First Nations language teachers in B.C. As well, it will enable delivery of focused programs to encourage Aboriginal students to be more motivated to learn math and science, and ultimately help them be successful in post-secondary education and in the labour market.
Three organizations received funding:
- University of Victoria: $100,000 for LE,NONET, to continue programming and gather data used to support Aboriginal students’ success in their post-secondary studies through to graduation.
- First Nations Education Steering Committee: $150,000 for First Nations language teacher training programs in Aboriginal communities.
- Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences: $100,000 to deliver high-quality education in mathematics, and provide programs to increase the success of Aboriginal learners in math and science throughout B.C.
Quotes:
Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -
“This funding will help post-secondary programs and research to continue to build a solid foundation for Aboriginal people to enjoy success in their chosen careers and secure good jobs so they can take care of their families and support their communities.”
Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -
“Ensuring Aboriginal learners can access an integrated, relevant and effective post-secondary system is crucial to their future. By funding activities such as the mentoring program through LE,NONET at UVic, or First Nations language teacher training in Aboriginal communities, and specialized math and science programs for school children, we are supporting Aboriginal students to be successful in their post-secondary studies and in life.”
David Turpin, president, University of
“We are grateful for the government’s continued funding for UVic’s LE,NONET program. It helps to further support Aboriginal students working with their peers, their communities and the university. As UVic continues to build on the success of LE,NONET, we expect to see more Aboriginal students complete their degrees. The program’s research provides valuable information about the most effective ways to support Aboriginal students as they continue their education and graduate.”
Tyrone McNeil, president of the First Nations Education Steering Committee -
“Revitalization of First Nations language is a priority for our communities and we greatly appreciate this funding provided to support First Nations language teacher education programs.”
Alejandro Adem, director, Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences -
"Support from the B.C. government will allow PIMS to enhance the mathematical opportunities for Aboriginal teachers and learners throughout British Columbia by offering summer math camps, teacher training workshops and peer mentorships. Mathematical skills are a basic component in technical careers and these programs seek to provide critical support to enable Aboriginal students to successfully pursue them."
Media contact:
Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca
