NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release Nov 30, 2006
NWCC has been chosen by the QQS Project Society (Heiltsuk Nation) and the Sierra Club of Canada (BC Chapter) to partner in developing and delivering a First Nations Guardian/Watchmen Training program for central and north coast communities in BC. The Coastal Guardian/Watchmen Training project has the support of the Coastal First Nations Turning Point Initiative – a regional body representing a number of coastal communities.
“The Sierra Club is excited and encouraged by
The purpose of the Coastal Guardian/Watchmen Training project is to address an issue articulated by coastal First Nations communities – the need to build the capacity of community-based resource practitioners to ensure sustainable resource management practices are being implemented and adhered to on the central and north coasts of
Guardian programs, also referred to as Watchmen programs, are a mechanism through which First Nations are the “eyes and ears” on the land and water to monitor and ensure that activities and practices within their territories are responsible and consistent with community plans and government regulations.
“This is the right kind of program for the College to be offering.” comments Ken Downs, who has been designated the project’s Curriculum Development Specialist. “We have experience and success working with First Nations communities on programs aimed at cultural, environmental and community sustainability – from the First Nations Land Stewardship and First Nations Public Administration programs to the
Program development will be done in partnership with a broad-based Community Advisory Group with representatives from communities on the North and
The program itself will initially consist of a one-year Certificate, followed by the development of a second year Diploma. Certificate level courses will include core courses addressing areas such as natural resource management, cultural knowledge, safety and communications, and skills related to effective monitoring. Diploma level courses will be specialized and focus on knowledge and skills specific to monitoring activities in forestry, fisheries, and/or parks and tourism.
“This partnership reflects the new reality that First Nations people are in control of our own destiny,” states Larry Jorgenson, QQS (Eyes) Projects Society. “This applies not only to monitoring and managing our traditional territories but also to being an integral part of developing the training and education programs to give us the capacity to do that. It is encouraging that NWCC recognizes this new reality and has become a willing partner with First Nations to move beyond the imposed models of education that have failed us in the past.”
“The College is committed to supporting the education goals of not only the First Nations communities we serve but those within the Province and beyond,” states NWCC President, Stephanie Forsyth. “This unique program acknowledges the traditions and wisdom of First Nations and will help to ensure that their lands and culture remains intact for generations to come.”
-30-
For more information contact:
Holly-Anne Burrows
Director, Communications and External Relations
Northwest Community College
Phone: 250.638.5463 Email: hburrows@nwcc.bc.ca