Thunder Bay, ON.  --  April 16, 2008 — Lakehead University and the Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education & Training Institute (OSHKI) renewed a five-year partnership agreement – a joint venture which provides additional educational opportunities to students served by each organization while helping them leverage their personal potential to contribute to society.  

 

Lakehead University has a longstanding commitment to fostering leadership and development in its Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal student populations, and to advancing the understanding of Aboriginal culture, heritage, and language within the University and broader communities.

 

 

“This agreement allows both institutions to continue to work together as partners in the development and delivery of post-secondary education and training programs for Aboriginal students,” says Lakehead University President Dr. Fred Gilbert.  “It also enables both parties to enhance the educational experience and educational opportunities of the Aboriginal student populations served by each institution.”  

Higher education and access programs play a vital role in the economic well being of Aboriginal communities.  OSHKI Executive Director Rosie S. Mosquito explains, "For the people in the 49 communities of Nishnawbe Aski Nation – located over 300,000 square kilometres of traditional territory across northern Ontario – the renewal of this partnership agreement means increasing access to post-secondary education. This is made possible by our blended delivery model, which includes on-campus sessions and distance education methods such as teleconference, video conference, and independent study.  Learners also enjoy the sense of community that these student-centred and culturally appropriate programs offer in contributing to their academic success.”  Mosquito is pleased that by working together, the two institutions will be in a position to increase access and postsecondary education success of Nishnawbe people – wherever they may reside.