For Release
April 12, 2007
WINNIPEG, Manitoba - Today, the Province of Manitoba,
Canada's New Government and the Business Council of Manitoba announced
that they are joining forces to provide over $1.35 million for financial
assistance and summer or interim employment to Aboriginal students pursuing
a post-secondary education.
The Honourable Diane McGifford, Minister of Advanced Education and Literacy,
and Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on behalf
of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen's Privy
Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister
of Western Economic Diversification, made the announcement today.
"The
Aboriginal Education Bursary Awards program is designed to provide Manitoba's
Aboriginal people with greater access to post-secondary education and training
opportunities," Minister McGifford said. "The Manitoba government
is very pleased to be part of this ongoing public and private sector partnership
which will, over the long term, build our workforce and benefit the provincial
economy."
"Canada's New Government is investing in the future of the
Aboriginal student population which is an important part of a well-educated
and skilled workforce," said MP Rod Bruinooge. "Through our
investment of $450,000, we are ensuring that Aboriginal people have the
access they need to post-secondary education, giving them the skills
that are required to secure meaningful jobs that will ensure a brighter
future."
The Province of Manitoba, Western Economic Diversification
Canada and the Business Council of Manitoba are each providing $450,000
over three years towards the Aboriginal Education Bursary Awards. The
Winnipeg Foundation administers the program.
"This model partnership between business and government has changed
the lives of hundreds of Manitoba Aboriginal students," said James
Carr, president of the Business Council of Manitoba. "We
are delighted that this partnership has been renewed for another three
years."
Under the program, up to a maximum of $3,000 is awarded to university
students and $1,500 to college students. Funds disbursed
directly to the institution and can be applied against a student's
costs of tuition, books and supplies. An estimated 150 Aboriginal
students will receive awards every year. In addition, the Business
Council of Manitoba estimates 10-15 students per year will receive offers
of summer or part-time employment with its member companies.
Western Economic Diversification Canada is a department of the Government
of Canada that works in partnership with the provinces, industry associations
and communities to stimulate and encourage diversification of the western
economy, as well as to represent the interests of the West in Ottawa.
For additional information, contact:
David Meister
Communications Officer
Western Economic Diversification
Canada
204-983-0789
Charles McDougall
Press Secretary
Cabinet Communications
Province of Manitoba
204-945-1494
