Aboriginal students at Vancouver Island University will benefit from a $553,000 provincial grant to support programs and activities at the institution that enhance their learning experience.
The university is one of 11 post-secondary institutions in B.C. to receive money this year to support Aboriginal Service Plans, which aim to ensure post-secondary education system is relevant, responsive, respectful and receptive to aboriginal learners and communities.
The aboriginal education department at VIU offers support for students to help create a sense of belonging for First Nations students, including peer mentorship, an aboriginal centre designed to resemble a traditional Coast Salish longhouse, and elders-in-residence.
“This funding will allow us to continue our commitment to working with aboriginal communities to create opportunities for aboriginal learners to access post-secondary education and, once there, provide them with the supports they need to be successful,” said Ralph Nilson, VIU president.