News Releases

June 08, 2022

Partnership to enhance Indigenous education opportunities

FNEII 3

A new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between NBCC and First Nations Education Initiative Incorporated (FNEII) will deepen the relationship of the two parties and enhance Indigenous education at the College.

The MOU sets the stage for academic cooperation between NBCC and FNEII, including:

  • Enhancement of quality of life for Indigenous learners;
  • Collaboration and commitment to enhanced post-secondary education and increased access to learning for Indigenous students;
  • Planning and development of educational programs capitalizing on the strengths of each party; and
  • Promotion of post-secondary education to First Nations learners in New Brunswick.

“We know that Indigenous learners are underrepresented in post-secondary education across the country and here in New Brunswick, however, knowing isn’t enough. We need to understand the needs of First Nations youth today,” said Mary Butler, President and CEO of NBCC. “That understanding can only come from meaningful partnerships where both parties learn from each other and work together towards shared outcomes.”

Bob Atwin, Executive Director of FNEII, signed the MOU on behalf of the organization.

“FNEII is pleased to partner with NBCC and is committed to supporting First Nations students in achieving their personal career goals,” said Atwin.

“We look forward to exploring new opportunities for education with FNEII,” added Ann Drennan, Vice President Academic and Research at NBCC.

About NBCC:

With six campuses across New Brunswick, NBCC’s quality-assured, relevant training opportunities support the needs of learners, employers, and communities, contributing to New Brunswick’s social and economic prosperity. Find out more about skills development training at NBCC by visiting: www.nbcc.ca.

About FNEII:

The First Nations Education Initiative was formed in 1994, consisting of 11 of 15 New Brunswick First Nations communities. Its mission is to establish and maintain an educational jurisdictional model for First Nations education which will result in improved capacity for First Nations educators, ultimately leading to improvements in the educational outcomes for all First Nations students attending Band Operated and Provincial schools.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Tanya Greer, Lead, Strategic Communications, NBCC

506.440.9105, tanya.greer@nbcc.ca