FUNDING FOR FIRST NATIONS UNIVERSITY OF CANADA

An agreement was signed today by the Government and the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) that allocates up to $1.6 million in funding for FNUniv.

"We have negotiated this agreement to ensure that the institution has what it needs to assist Saskatchewan's students in meeting their education and career goals," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "The $1.6 million is an important part of ensuring the institution operates effectively, and can provide the best possible education and experience to learners."

The agreement allows for one-time provincial funding that will assist FNUniv with collective agreement ratification costs and other operating costs. The Ministry has allocated an additional $400,000 to conduct a strategic and operational review that will support FNUniv's long-term sustainability and accountability.

"We are excited to reach this new agreement with the province," FNUniv Board of Governors chair Chief Clarence Bellegarde said. "This agreement supports our commitment to bring our faculty members closer to parity with their colleagues at other universities, and it also supports our collective efforts to developing our institution to its fullest potential as we prepare our students for the future."

"The First Nations University of Canada is a fundamental part of post-secondary education in our province, ensuring that First Nations students have access to a culturally supportive learning environment," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude said. "Our government is pleased to continue to work with the institution to ensure that the needs of learners, First Nations communities and all people in our province are met."

"As one of our federated colleges, First Nations University of Canada is a valued partner of the University of Regina, and plays a unique and important role in post-secondary education for Canada's Aboriginal students," University of Regina president Vianne Timmons said. "We are pleased that the government recognizes this role and has made such a strong commitment to Aboriginal post-secondary education in the province."

To learn more about FNUniv, visit www.firstnationsuniversity.ca.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Donna-Rae Crooks
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3716

Tina Pelletier
First Nations University of Canada
Regina
Phone: 306-790-5950 Ext. 2600

Stephen King
University of Regina
Regina
Phone: 306-585-5439