FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government has invested $45,000 to help First Nations Education Initiative Inc. develop an interactive web-based support system for First Nation students. The website, PSE Helper, was officially launched today.

“Our government is investing in innovative projects like this to increase accessibility to post-secondary education for under-represented groups,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Jody Carr. “This partnership is an excellent way to improve student achievement for all First Nation students and support employment opportunities for Aboriginal people.”

The website links students with the information and resources they need to make informed post-secondary education decisions. It provides information about accessing scholarships and bursaries, monitors and reports on student and career events going on around the province, and helps students and graduates find work in their field of study. In addition, the site enables students to connect with community elders.

“The website was designed specifically for New Brunswick Mi'kmaq and Maliseet students, but we hope this format and service can be adapted to other First Nation communities and cultures across Canada,” said Bob Atwin, executive director of First Nation Education Initiative Inc. “The goal has always been to assemble resources and present them in a way that is current, user friendly, and relevant to unique cultural identities and we are pleased with the feedback and results so far.”

“Our government is focused on rebuilding New Brunswick, and through our Labour Force and Skills Development Strategy, and by supporting projects that help co-ordinate learning opportunities and facilitate the employment of Aboriginal people in New Brunswick, we are honouring that commitment,” said Carr.


04-12-13