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Photo submitted/RDP.
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and Sunchild First Nation have signed an agreement that will give Sunchild First Nation School students the opportunity to learn about trades work.
Through the Sunchild Elders Village Program, students will gain firsthand experience of trades work in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical under RDP’s instruction and supervision, while also helping build homes for Elders near the Nation’s school.
The program is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that RDP and Sunchild have renewed, providing Indigenous students a unique opportunity to explore careers in trades close to home. Having sampled the trades work, students can then apply for RDP’s Red Seal trades programs.
In addition to trades, the MOU also highlights future work together in areas such as applied research, health and wellness, and creative arts.
"The renewal of this agreement signifies a definitive effort to put words to actions in providing more opportunities for the students and members of Sunchild to advance their futures in trades through our engagement with RDP," said Councillor Clint McHugh, Sunchild First Nation.
Through the MOU, Indigenous students have academic opportunities that include an introduction to skilled trades and on-reserve training such as upgrading and certificate programs. Indigenous students will be supported in their transition to study at RDP, including through Indigenous Student Services and the range of Student Services provided at the Polytechnic.
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Sunchild First Nation and empower Indigenous students to achieve their academic and career goals,” said Stuart Cullum, President, Red Deer Polytechnic. “RDP is committed to making education accessible for all learners and advancing economic and social development in the communities that we serve.”
As identified in the Reconcili-Action Plan 2023-28, RDP is striving to build meaningful, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island, create more pathways for Indigenous learners, honour and hold space for Indigenous Peoples and welcome the sharing of perspectives.
The MOU will continue until June 31, 2029, when both parties can choose to extend it.
**With information provided by Red Deer Polytechnic
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