ACC signs Indigenous Education Protocol

Joined by community Elders, Assiniboine Community College (ACC) signed Colleges and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Indigenous Education Protocol earlier today at a ceremony on the grounds of the North Hill Campus.

The signing reaffirms the college’s commitment to Indigenous education, recognizing the distinct and diverse cultures, languages, histories and perspectives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.

“We recognize our responsibility to foster supportive environments that respect and celebrate Indigenous people,” said President Mark Frison. “This protocol is consistent with our strategic direction—namely, to contribute to First Nation, Métis and Inuit prosperity by having the highest college participation rate in the province.”

CICan’s Indigenous Education Committee developed the document in consultation with its members across Canada and partners in Indigenous communities. CICan is a voluntary membership organization representing publicly supported colleges, institutes, cégeps and polytechnics across Canada and internationally.

Last academic year at ACC, 18 per cent of certificate and diploma students studying on campus or by distance identified themselves as First Nations, Métis or Inuit.

“The principles of the protocol are significant for us as a college as we continue to work with our Elders, students and communities to develop our new Aboriginal strategy,” said Michael Cameron, Dean of Students. “Our goal is to engage Aboriginal communities and students as well as recruit and retain Aboriginal students at our college.”

This protocol is founded on seven key principles, including a commitment to making Indigenous education a priority and supporting students and employees to increase understanding and reciprocity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. More information can be found on the CICan website at www.collegesinstitutes.ca.