The Commonwealth Conference on Education provided a venue that attracted important leaders of First Nation educational initiatives. Two groups that operate collaboratively under the umbrella of the AFN (Assembly of First Nations) met prior to the conference to work on issues of critical importance to First Nations people. The Chiefs’ Committee on Education (CCOE) is the political body that works on political issues such as funding, policy, and agreements related to educational objectives. Simultaneously the National Indian Education Council (NIEC) provides technical expertise and direction related to education.

L-R Dr. Paulette Tremblay, Ex. Dir. NIEC, Chief Perry Bellegarde, Chair CCOE and Marjorie Gould, NIEC representative from Nova Scotia and Newfoundland

Chief Perry Bellegarde of Saskatchewan who holds the AFN portfolio for education, reported that their two top priorities, post secondary educational and issues related to special needs in education are moving forward, and have reached the Memorandum to Cabinet phase. “Our people are waiting in line for educational opportunities. It must be dealt with now,” he states. “Education also has important social cost implications. If our people are not educated,” he asks, “what are they supposed to do?”.

This entry was posted on Friday, December 1st, 2000 at 11:54 am and is filed under General.