The Manitoba government and the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the national government of the Red River Métis, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education.
In a media release, Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko said “The Manitoba government is committed to developing a long-term distinctions-based education strategy to improve the educational outcomes of Red River Métis and all Manitoba students. We are pleased to partner with the Manitoba Métis Federation on this important initiative.”
MMF Minister of Provincial Education Joan Ledoux said “Much of the effort to restore the promises made to our Ancestors in 1870 is being done through the education of our youth. Creating pathways to education and economic stability for Red River Métis citizens helps lift families out of poverty and creates a brighter future for our people and all Manitobans. We look forward to renewing our relationship with the Manitoba government and building on the MMF’s successes in this area.”
The MOU commits both governments to developing a shared, long-term, distinctions-based education strategy to improve the educational outcomes of Red River Métis students in Manitoba. The Red River Métis Education Working Group will consist of individuals appointed by ministers Ledoux and Ewasko. The working group will invite participation of key education stakeholders including the Indigenous Inclusion Directorate and its advisory council, Manitoba School Boards Association,
Manitoba Association of School Superintendents and The Manitoba Teachers’ Society.
The strategy will also include educational and other supports for cultural learning, overall academic success, transition into the workforce or post-secondary education, data analysis, best practices and policy development, along with additional research to improve outcomes for Red River Métis learners, the ministers noted.
