Official Signing Ceremony on Thursday

February 6, 2008 

The College of New Caledonia and the University of Northern British Columbia will be working with the Lake Babine Nation to implement a Carrier language program this fall.  Students completing the program will have the opportunity to obtain a certificate from the BC College of Teachers that will enable them to teach Carrier language in local schools.

“Education is vital for the preservation of our language and culture, and this new partnership is an exciting development for the Lake Babine Nation,” says Chief Betty Patrick.

On Thursday, Chief Patrick will sign an agreement committing the three partners to deliver the program starting this fall. UNBC President Don Cozzetto and CNC Vice-President Academic Lynn Jacques will also participate in the signing ceremony, which will be on Thursday, February 7, at 10am in the Tribal Office Board Room.  Media are welcome. Burns Lake Mayor Bernice Magee will also be attending.

Courses in the program will be taught at the CNC campus in Burns Lake well as in classrooms within the Lake Babine Nation. Instructors from the College, University, and the Lake Babine Nation will be involved in the delivery of this program, which is expected to attract about 25 students. Students will have the opportunity to complete a one-year certificate and two-year diploma before completing the third year of the program, which will enable them to be recommended for certification from the BC College of Teachers. It will mark the first time that UNBC has offered a complete program in Burns Lake.

The First Nations Language program has been delivered in a number of communities throughout northern BC, including Hazelton, New Aiyansh, Prince Rupert, and Fort St. James.

Contact:
Monty Palmantier, Education Coordinator, Lake Babine Nation - 250-692-4709
or Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC - 250-960-5622