I am presently conducting research on the labour market trends in Canada and the effects on Aboriginal populations. My findings are that as we move into a knowledge-based economy the demand for education and training is on the rise. The National Roundtable on Skills and Learning states that by 2004 one in four jobs will require a University education and that by 2001 73% of the new jobs created will also require post secondary. So as I cross examine these findings with the present demographics of our people in Canada and find that we are the fastest and youngest growing segment yet over half have not received a high school diploma.
The journey ahead is obvious, to me anyway. While at this point the conclusions and recommendations are preliminary, the first strategy is getting this message out there. We need to view Canada's labour force position as an opportunity and should be embrassed for the overall betterment of all Aboriginal people. We are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers and anticipate effects of our retiring population will further the need for skilled workers. Canada needs people, we are in a Baby Boom, opportunities, I say !

The push for private operated Aboriginal education institutes is our key to finally becoming a recognized partner to ecomionc growth in this country. Institutes that recognize our culture, our learning styles etc. but also leveraged in the business community to recognize credentials.

"If you build it, they will come.."

Spread the Word !