The Ministry of Skills Training, Employment, and Post-secondary (STEPS) is proud to announce its commitment to fostering educational opportunities for Métis learners by funding 10 aspiring scholars in their post-secondary journeys during the current school year. The selected students will pursue studies in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), aiming to contribute to the advancement of these critical sectors.
Through this initiative, the Ministry of STEPS aims to empower Métis learners in their educational endeavours and enhance their contributions to the ever-evolving landscape of STEM industries. This investment represents a significant step toward realizing the full potential of Métis students and promoting equitable access to higher education.
The scholarship program is made possible in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, which has played a pivotal role in allocating funding for the upcoming academic year. This partnership underscores the commitment of both entities to support Métis learners and facilitate their successful transition into post-secondary education.
Commenting on the initiative, Paulette Flamond, the Minister of Skills Training, Employment, and Post-Secondary, expressed her enthusiasm for the program's potential impact. "We are dedicated to nurturing the talents of Métis learners and ensuring they have the necessary resources to excel in STEM fields. By investing in their education, we are not only empowering individuals but also contributing to the growth and innovation of British Columbia's workforce."
Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) CEO, Colette Trudeau, added, "We are thrilled the Ministry of STEPS continues to expand opportunities for Métis students to pursue STEM education. It is critical that we support Métis people to gain the skills they need in the digital age to succeed on their career journey.”
The Ministry of STEPS and MNBC anticipate that this scholarship program will not only encourage more Métis students to pursue higher education in STEM disciplines but also inspire them to become leaders and changemakers in these fields.
Quotes from recipients:
"My education journey in STEM has proven to be lengthy and difficult, however, because of this scholarship, finances are one less burden I have to carry. I cannot begin to express my gratitude to MNBC for helping me build this academic foundation which will one day prosper into a career." -Paris Hofmeister
“The scholarship funds will contribute to my living expenses while I attend university. Receiving this award means that I will be able to devote more time to learning new skills in school, which will make me more competitive in the job market after I graduate.” – Justin Turner
“Receiving this MNBC scholarship I will be able to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. This will allow me to fully engage in my coursework and clinical experiences without worrying about how to cover the expenses. This scholarship will ultimately help me become a more competent and compassionate nurse, dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes for patients and the indigenous community.” -Karyssa Parks