The sectoral sessions on lifelong learning are bringing together representatives of Aboriginal organizations and communities, policy experts and educators, as well as officials from federal provincial and territorial governments, to discuss ideas to improve education outcomes for Aboriginal peoples.

The lifelong learning sectoral sessions are divided into two parts:

• Lifelong Learning: Early Childhood Development and kindergarten to Grade 12, November 13 and 14, 2004, in Winnipeg;
• Post-Secondary Education and Skills Development, November 18 and 19, 2004, in Gatineau.

Key areas for discussion during the sessions include: jurisdiction and control; sustainability and capacity building; funding; access and integration; barriers to learning; support for key transitions; the role of parents and communities; the increased participation of women; curriculum development/research and development; Aboriginal languages and culturally appropriate learning; literacy; and special needs students.

The policies, programs and services available to First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and in the context of women, urban and rural residents, will also be examined.

Population growth in Aboriginal communities is far higher than that of the general population. The next ten years will see the birth of over 315,000 Aboriginal children who will need early childhood development programs. In that same period, over 315,000 First Nations, Inuit and Métis children go through the kindergarten to Grade 12 education system and potentially into post-secondary education studies. Further, the Aboriginal workforce will increase by 45 per cent in the next 20 years.

Education is critical to the ability of Aboriginal peoples to achieve economic security and a better quality of life. There is also a strong link between education outcomes and meeting the employment needs of Aboriginal communities in such areas healthcare, environment and social and legal services.

The discussions at the lifelong learning sectoral sessions can play an important role in moving towards improving educational attainmen of Aboriginal learners.

November 2004

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