Assembly of First Nations candidate championing the importance of post-secondary education
Leave native education alone, AFN chief candidate tells Ottawa
May 11, 2009
A contender for the office of Assembly of First Nations' National Chief says there is an urgent need for federal funding to support the education and training of First Nations students.
And, John Beaucage told a Sudbury audience during a weekend visit, Ottawa must not change the current system that supports college and university students without giving First Nations a say.
"The importance of education for our people, and our people's right to education, cannot be stressed strongly enough," Beaucage said in a release. "More resources are needed to ensure more First Nations students can attend college, university and skilled trades programs, including apprenticeships."
Beaucage, Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation, was speaking to a sold-out campaign dinner attended by 250 supporters to outline his vision for the educational success of First Nations youth.
He said one e of the most pressing issues for First Nations across Canada is post-secondary support funding, currently the subject of an internal review by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. The authority to renew the Post-Secondary Student Support Program is due for renewal by 2010.
Native leaders have learned that some of the proposed recommendations point to the implementation of drastic policy changes, including the possibility that the program could change from grants to a loan system administered by an outside agency such as Canada Student Loans.
Beaucage said that would be a mistake. "It is my position that such unilateral changes will be disastrous for the success of the program for First Nations, as these changes will result in even less access and opportunity for those who want to attend college or university.
"Therefore, I am strongly recommending that the Government of Canada renew the existing authority of this program with enhanced dollars.
He said his AFN election platform is proposing the federal government transform the Post-Secondary Student Support Program into a legislated program from its current status as a "discretionary" initiative, subject to unilateral changes by any given Cabinet.
"The overall goal of such a legislative initiative will be to increase the number of post-secondary graduates exponentially over the next 10 years as a means of eliminating poverty and enhancing First Nation economies," said Beaucage, speaking on behalf of the 42 member First Nations of the Anishinabek Nation.
"First Nations need to play a leading role in the evolution of the post-secondary program. We are calling on the government to consult with us directly on this important matter."