November 30, 2016
Province Partners with Business Council of Manitoba to Provide Education Awards for Indigenous Students
The Manitoba government is once again partnering with the Business Council of Manitoba to provide financial support for Indigenous students through the Aboriginal Education Awards, Education and Training Minister Ian Wishart announced today.
“The Manitoba government is pleased to support the Business Council of Manitoba in providing Indigenous students with greater access to post-secondary education and training opportunities,” said Wishart. “Through this investment we are ensuring Indigenous students continue to get the education and skills needed to secure meaningful jobs and brighter futures.”
The Manitoba government and the Business Council of Manitoba will invest a total of $300,000 in the Aboriginal Education Awards for 2016-17. Since the program launched in 2001, in partnership with the governments of Manitoba and Canada, more than 2,100 awards totalling more than $5.5 million have been presented.
“The impact of Aboriginal Education Awards is felt throughout the province,” said Don Leitch, president and CEO, Business Council of Manitoba. “Graduates from a broad range of disciplines, including the arts and science, education, nursing, business, music and many technical fields, are working in their chosen areas thanks to this program.”
Successful applicants also have the opportunity to gain summer work experience with partners in the awards program, the minister noted.
“We’ve heard from Indigenous students about the importance of this award and what it means to have their achievements and potential recognized,” said Wishart. “Many of these same students return to their home communities and become role models to their family and communities.”
- 30 -