Parliamentary Secretary Strahl congratulates Graduates of Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

SASKATOON, June 19, 2014 /CNW/ - Mark Strahl, MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today met and congratulated the graduating Class of 2014 of the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies during their graduation ceremony, which saw 218 students receive diplomas and certificates in a range of programs, such as business adminstration, IT, childcare, aircraft mechanics, welding and carpentry.

Parliamentary Secretary Strahl spoke about the Government of Canada's commitment to working with First Nations to create the conditions for more prosperous, self-sufficient First Nation communities. To that end, the Government of Canada is encouraging and helping First Nations youth get the skills and training they need to enter the workforce with programs like the First Nation and Inuit Employment Strategy, the Post-Secondary Partnerships Program and the enhanced service delivery of the Income Assistance Program.

Prior to the ceremony, PS Strahl also had the privilege of meeting with graduates and teachers to discuss their vision for both the skills they have gained and the opportunities that lay before them as they transition into the workforce.

Quick Facts:

• The Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies fills an important role in Aboriginal employment and training initiatives.
• The Institute operates within the Saskatchewan provincial post-secondary system and is Canada's largest First Nation controlled and governed technical institute.
• Founded in 1976, the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies is governed by the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations and its Board is comprised of First Nation Senators, Tribal Council representatives and members of the Federation's Executive.

Quotes

"Our Government is committed to continue taking concrete steps that will lead to greater First Nation participation in the economy, healthier First Nation communities and a stronger Canada. Congratulations to the graduating class of 2014 as they embark on this new phase of their life."
Mark Strahl, MP
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

"We are extremely proud of the graduates. Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies plays a key role in supporting individuals as they step on the pathway to a better life. Education is a key determinant to better futures. I am very pleased we have the Government of Canada here today to experience first hand the reward of the gift of education. As partners, we are working together to build an inclusive economy. Our graduates are now part of that partnership."
Riel Bellegarde, President and CEO
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

SOURCE: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada

This news release is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Minister's Office  Media Relations

Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern
Development Canada
819-953-1160

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