Milestone $57M Provincial Investment for Indigenous-led Postsecondary Education
The Indigenous Institutes Consortium (IIC) welcomes a historic $57M investment over three years from the Ontario government that will strengthen Indigenous-led postsecondary education and training across the province. This funding will further Indigenous Institutes’ capacity to develop independent, culturally grounded programming and expand partnership programs as they continue to serve Indigenous learners and their communities. With graduation rates at Indigenous Institutes exceeding 80% and 90% of graduates transitioning into good-quality jobs, Indigenous Institutes are excited for the opportunity to grow and continue to achieve outstanding results for learners and their community.
The milestone investment will create opportunities for social and economic growth. “This critical investment contributes to preserving our vital role in offering Indigenous-led postsecondary education and training that is grounded in Indigenous culture, language, and knowledge, including wraparound supports contributing to learning success,” said Lorrie Deschamps, Chair, Governance Circle, Indigenous Institutes Consortium and President of Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute.
For over 30 years, Indigenous Institutes have been delivering in-demand programs and producing workforce-ready graduates in fields such as health care, skilled trades, childcare, long-term care, social services, community justice, and entrepreneurship. This investment will further enhance the success and outcomes of Indigenous learners.
“Providing long-term, stable investments in Indigenous Institutes ensures that learners can pursue their educational goals close to home and remain connected to their communities, while gaining the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to local economic development and community well-being,” said Marsha Josephs, Executive Director, Indigenous Institutes Consortium.
The IIC remains committed to working in partnership with the province to ensure the needs of Indigenous learners are met and Indigenous-led postsecondary education is equitably funded. This unprecedented investment holds the potential to significantly boost Ontario’s economy.
Press Release provided by IIC
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