FNEAA National Indigenous STEM Award to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre

First Nations Education Administrators Association (FNEAA)
National Indigenous STEM Award to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre

The FNEAA is pleased to announce that the inaugural National Indigenous STEM Award will be presented to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC) for excellence in advancing Indigenous STEM in First Nations schools by the 2023 award sponsor Let’s Talk Science.

The MFNERC was established 25 years ago by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to provide the province’s leading education, administration, technology, language and culture services to 58 First Nations schools in Manitoba. Since its inception, the MFNERC has advanced Indigenous science and STEM through numerous science, technology, engineering and math fairs throughout the province. Charles Cochrane, Executive Director, MFNERC, “We are pleased that Indigenous science is being honoured and First Nations schools and students are being recognized for Indigenous knowledge and STEM taught in our schools“.

Let’s Talk Science connects the world of science, technology and innovation with education, bringing STEM to life in meaningful ways that build diversity and inclusion and awareness of future opportunities. This helps to reduce barriers to STEM and build interest and a sense of belonging. With invaluable input from Indigenous partners, Let’s Talk Science is building a sustainable, reconciliatory approach to their work.

“We are pleased to sponsor this year’s award to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre, recognizing their excellence in Indigenous STEM and supporting First Nations schools through their programs, services and science fairs,” said Bonnie Schmidt, Founder and President of Let’s Talk Science.

“For over 30 years Let’s Talk Science has supported Indigenous science and STEM learning across Canada through education programs and working closely with Indigenous partners”, said Tammy Webster, Anishnabekwe from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Director of Equity at Let’s Talk Science. “We are pleased to present this award to an organization that has demonstrated such a commitment to supporting Indigenous STEM learning

The Award was presented at the First Nations Education Administrators Association’s National Gathering: Indigenous STEM on November, 8, 2023 in Winnipeg, MB. Dr. Paulette Tremblay, FNEAA CEO and President is excited about the award, “Congratulations to the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre for receiving this first award in advancing excellence in Indigenous STEM in First Nations education, careers and future.”

For more information contact Simon Brascoupé at sbrascoupe@fneaa.ca