COU Statement: Ontario Universities Expanding Knowledge of Indigenous History into Curriculum for New Teachers

TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2016 /CNW/ - "Ontario universities welcome the government's initiatives to create a better future for all Ontarians by fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous peoples.

We embrace the need to build understanding in our teachers about First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures so that those who educate the next generation are knowledgeable and will understand respectful and culturally appropriate methods of teaching and learning.

Our faculties of education have developed curriculum to ensure graduating teachers are aware of Indigenous traditions, cultures and perspectives and are incorporating these perspectives into all areas of curriculum, including environmental and arts education, literacy, numeracy and science. 

Universities are also adding more Indigenous programs and making efforts to introduce students to university education through outreach programs to elementary schools.

This month, on behalf of Ontario universities, the Council of Ontario Universities launched the "Let's Take Our Future Further'' campaign in which Aboriginal learners gave video testimonials about the transformative power of university education to inspire their peers to consider a university education for themselves. www.Futurefurther.ca

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission put a spotlight on the need to ensure equitable access to postsecondary education for Aboriginal students, who have historically been underrepresented.

Ontario universities believe that Ontario is a stronger province as a result of the contributions of Aboriginal peoples."

David Lindsay
President and CEO
Council of Ontario Universities

COU is the voice of Ontario's universities, promoting the value of education, research and innovation that leads to social, cultural and economic success.

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SOURCE Council of Ontario Universities

Wendy McCann, Director, Strategic Communications and Media Relations, The Council of Ontario Universities, 416-979-2165 ext. 233, 647-271-0825 (cell), Email Wendy McCann