The Government of Canada is demonstrating its commitment to help Indigenous students succeed at the Kiuna Institution

ODANAK, QC, Aug. 26, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with First Nations to help students succeed.

At Kiuna Institution's fifth graduation ceremony, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, announced that the institution would receive funding of $650,000 over three years. This contribution will make it possible to hire resources who will help students succeed by providing them with support services. The funding will also make it possible to equip the Institution's cultural space and language centre to provide an environment reflective of the cultural traditions of the various Indigenous nations.

The post-secondary institution located in the Abenaki community of Odanak will receive $190,000 for the 2017–2018 fiscal year, and $230,000 annually for the 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 fiscal years. The contributions will benefit Francophone and Anglophone First Nations students.

Quotes

"It is with great pleasure that we announce this funding on graduation day at Kiuna Institution, an establishment renowned for its learning environment that focusses on cultural education. This Government of Canada financial support, in addition to the Province of Québec, will help students obtain post-secondary school diplomas. Thanks to the support and activities in celebrating Indigenous culture, students will thrive in an environment that is conducive to academic success."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"KIUNA Institution opened its doors in 2011, and we are proud to report the graduation of 76 of our students since that time. It goes without saying that adequate funding is key to supporting this innovative project, which unquestionably meets a need among our youth. We are dedicated to providing outstanding academic training and an environment that honours the students' history and culture. Therefore, we are delighted today to accept this new financial support, which complements the funding awarded by the province."

Lise Bastien
General Director of the First Nations Education Council

Quick facts

• The $650,000 contribution to be paid to Kiuna Institution by INAC over three years will make it possible to hire two specialized resources who will work closely with the students to help them succeed.
  
  
• Kiuna Institution is a post-secondary establishment (college) located in the community of Odanak in Québec. It has been offering various programs and services in French and English to students from eight Indigenous nations since August 2011.

Related links

Kiuna Institution

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

For further information: media may contact: Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 613-697-8316; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs, 819-953-1160