First Nations Post-Secondary Institution to Open in Quebec

The new school will fill a long-standing void that’s existed since the closure of Manitou College.

Many education and First Nations dignitaries were on hand in Odanak, Quebec today to announce the creation of a collegial studies centre.

“The institution, to be established in Odanak, will quickly become a source of pride for our nations. It will ensure the emergence of a new generation of leaders for our communities”, said Lise Bastien, Director General of the First Nations Education Council.

The new school will fill a long-standing void that’s existed since the closure of Manitou College, which operated for 5 years before suddenly and tragically closing in the 1970s.

Both the Provincial and Federal governments will play a key role in funding the school, with The Federal Government contributing $201,000 for capital assets, while 65%-70% of the school’s annual budget will be financed by the Province. Support from the private sector will also be provided with funding and equipment from companies like Sono Vidéo and Polycom.

Ghislain Picard, Chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador was joined by Pierre Corbeil, Quebec’s Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, as well as representatives of the Federal Government. Representatives from Dawson College, Cégep de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Sono Vidéo and Polycom were also on hand.