REGINA – The provincial government is increasing driver education funding for Aboriginal students on Saskatchewan reserves.
On Monday, a joint final report was released by the provincial government and the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) that focused on improving education and employment for First Nations and Métis people in Saskatchewan.
One of the 25 task force suggestions recommended driver education training as a practical solution to create more employment opportunities among Aboriginal students.
The province has quickly announced its intention to removed this barrier and ensure driver education is available to all eligible students attending high schools on reserves.
The move is expected to help around 2,600 more First Nations students get their license. Driver education training is already offered by some First Nations high schools.
“Our government is committed to ensuring that all Saskatchewan residents share in the success of our growing province and that requires removing barriers to First Nations education and employment opportunities,” said Education Minister Russ Marchuk.
FSIN Vice Chief Simon Bird applauded province’s announcement today.
“This is an important issue we have been working with the provincial government on for the last two years, and we see this as a positive first step in moving forward on the recommendations of the Joint Task Force,” said Bird.
Panellists were chosen in March 2012 and the task force was initially estimated to cost $2 million.
“This provides SGI with another opportunity to promote traffic safety with First Nations youth and helps support the growth of Saskatchewan’s workforce by facilitating access to driver’s licences,” said Donna Harpauer, minister responsible for SGI.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) said they will be exploring additional programs with the federal government and First Nations high schools in the coming months.
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