Canadore College and First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) have renewed their partnership to deliver post-secondary educational programming to First Nation communities in Ontario.
As an Indigenous-owned and governed post-secondary institution, FNTI has provided college and university programs and professional training to 102 Ontario First Nations through agreements with publicly funded Ontario colleges and universities. FNTI is located on the Tyendinaga Mowhawk Territory.
“Canadore College has been our college partner of choice for over 25 of our 35-year history,” said Suzanne Brant, president of FNTI, in a May 30 news release.
“Our values are separate and distinct, yet they intersect within the foundation of respect and relationship-building. We are both committed to empowering individuals through education, providing cultural support and positive transformations.”
Among the Canadore programs currently delivered by FNTI on the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory situated on the Bay of Quinte are: First Peoples Aviation Technology, Indigenous Community and Justice Services, Early Childhood Education, Mental Health and Addiction Worker and Social Service Worker.
“Indigenous institutes are recognized as equal, unique and complementary pillars of post-secondary education in Ontario. They offer an environment for Indigenous learners to study while remaining in their home communities, growing their capacity and skills through Indigenous education” said Mary Wabano, director of Canadore’s First Peoples’ Centre and associate dean of the School of Indigenous Studies, in the release.
“Our longstanding partnership with FNTI means that we will continue to work as a dedicated partner, and support their transition to even greater independence through new credentialing frameworks.”
Brant said that FNTI is in the process of actively developing stand-alone curricula, including the Indigenous Sustainable Food Systems program, which will follow the institute’s traditional intense mode of delivery, allowing Indigenous learners to maintain connections to family and community while studying.
Canadore College is located in North Bay.
