Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) has received nearly $13 million for a project by its education and training arm, designed to provide employment training for jobs in the resources and remediation industry, public sector, renewable resources, trades and media/arts sectors.
NWT MP Michael McLeod announced the funding Friday on behalf of the Employment, Workforce Development departments.
McLeod stated: “As we strive towards reconciliation, it’s crucial that we support initiatives that empower Indigenous communities and create opportunities for meaningful employment.
“This investment in YKDFN’s Dechįta Nàowo project through the Skills and Partnership Fund will help Indigenous people gain in-demand skills for long-term employment.”
The project was selected after an open call for proposals was held in spring 2022 under the federal Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF).
Chief Ernest Betsina, Dettah community Chief of YKDFN, stated its post-secondary education department has been delivering locally developed and managed training since 2016.
He stated, “This funding has allowed us to strengthen our existing programs and diversify our training streams including delivering training programs with post-secondary partners.
“We are excited to see our young people access more employment options because of this training.”
