Media Contacts

Richelle Dawn Funk

Ministry of Advanced Education
250 356-7876

Annette Stevens

College of New Caledonia
250 561-5878

Backgrounders

Supporting Aboriginal learners in Northern British Columbia

Partnerships between public post-secondary institutions and Aboriginal communities in Northern British Columbia receiving funding through the Aboriginal Community-Based Training Partnership programs in 2015-16:

Northern British Columbia – $806,000 investment to support 79 Aboriginal learners

$24,060 to the College of New Caledonia and Tl’azt’en Nation partnership

Funding is to deliver the health access – health care assistant certificate program. Participants will acquire the skills necessary to care for individuals with disabilities living in long-term care facilities or private homes. Students will also receive upgrading courses in English and math. 16 Aboriginal learners will benefit.

$169,072 to the College of New Caledonia and Yekooche First Nation partnership

Funding is to deliver the pre-employment access to trades program. Participants will develop resumes and cover letters and participate in mock interviews. Training will also include adult upgrading courses and safety certificates such as construction safety training system and strata IT fundamentals. 12 Aboriginal learners will benefit.

$197,406 to the College of New Caledonia and Takla Lake First Nation partnership

Funding is to deliver the pre-employment residential building maintenance assistant program. Participants will gain a range of essential work skills, such as resume writing, as well as certificate and technical training for building maintenance such as trades math, carpentry and plumbing. 12 Aboriginal learners will benefit.

$178,853 to the College of New Caledonia and Saik’uz First Nation partnership

Funding is to deliver college and career preparation. Participants will undergo a skills assessment and enrol in appropriate English, math or computer courses. 15 Aboriginal learners will benefit.

$236,677 to the College of New Caledonia and Saik’uz, Nadleh Whut'en and the Stellat’en First Nations partnership

Funding is to deliver the Aboriginal workplace readiness program. Participants will focus on subjects such as Aboriginal culture, computer skills and financial literacy. Students will obtain certificate including occupational first aid and resource road radio operation. 24 Aboriginal learners will benefit.