Post-Secondary Education

Working towards the elimination of barriers to allow Indigenous off-reserve students to successfully access post-secondary education (PSE).   The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples works to provide an opportunity for the Government of Canada and CAP to discuss and advance joint policy priorities aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of off-reserve Indigenous peoples in Canada through efforts related to post-secondary education. This can take the shape of PSE sub-accord or a permanent bilateral mechanism. Ultimately, the formal commitment to funding from the Government of Canada to CAP must allow for self-determination and basic organizational capacity for our provincial and territorial organizations to assist our constituency to achieve our post-secondary education goals. Conclusion - the important takeaway In 2016, it was ruled in the CAP-Daniels Decision that the federal government has constitutional responsibility for Métis and Non-status Indians. As a result of continued lack of recognition, CAP’s constituents are not able to access funding for furthering their studies through PSE. Permanent and ongoing access to PSE programming will ensure Non-status Indigenous students and service providers are appropriately supported to meet the needs of our community. Incorporating Indigenous knowledge within these processes will also be critical to ensuring the success of community members.