Nipissing Aboriginal Student Links program recognized

Nipissing University’s Aboriginal Student Links program has been named an early entry winner by the Inspiring Approaches to First Nations, Métis and Inuit Learning Changemakers Initiative.

Launched in 2010, Aboriginal Student Links (ASL) supports life-long learning through peer mentorship.  Building on a twenty five year relationship with First Nations in the region, Nipissing University has endeavoured to develop programs and initiatives that respond to community goals. ASL is a terrific example of such collaboration that began with First Nations participation in the development. The program has now expanded to include working with two local school boards. ASL involves university students mentoring secondary school students to help ensure their successful transition into the next stage of learning.  Those secondary school students learn to act as mentors to younger students.  By working on a broad scale with a range of age groups, the program helps highlight the importance life-long learning.

The Changemakers Initiative is hosted by Ashoka Canada, a leading philanthropic and citizen sector organizations in Canada. It aims to celebrate and acknowledge grassroots innovations that boost the success of First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners throughout the lifecycle.

Inspiring Approaches is the first initiative of its kind in Canada to seek out innovative ideas and projects designed for First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners.

Funding for ASL is provided by the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities.

ASL was announced as a winning entry on December 21, 2011.

Visit Inspiring Approaches online at http://www.changemakers.com/fnmi-learning

For more information about Ashoka Canada: http://canada.ashoka.org