New Relationship
The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and Aboriginal
people. Guided by principles of trust, and by recognition and respect for First Nations' rights and title, we are building
a stronger and healthier relationship between government and Aboriginal people. By working together, we will bring tangible
social and economic benefits to Aboriginal people across the Province and narrow the gap between Aboriginal people and other
British Columbians.
The Ministry of Education supports the New Relationship by enhancing achievement for Aboriginal students. School completion
rates and achievement levels for Aboriginal students are much lower than they are for the student population as a whole —
by 2015/2016 the Ministry's target is for the Aboriginal completion rate to be the same as the overall completion rate. The
Ministry is fully committed to improved achievement for Aboriginal students and to building a new relationship with Aboriginal
people.
In July 2006, a significant step was taken to enhance First Nations' education in the Province with the signing of the British Columbia
First Nation Education Agreement, which establishes a process for the recognition of First Nations' jurisdiction over First Nations'
education. It is intended that through this agreement, First Nations' governance over education will ensure culturally relevant
programs and enhance the achievement levels of First Nations' learners.
As well, the Ministry will continue to work with school districts and Aboriginal communities with the intention of having
Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreements completed and implemented in all school districts by the end of year 2007. Enhancement
Agreements highlight the importance of academic performance and stress the integral nature of Aboriginal traditional culture
and languages to Aboriginal student development and success. Enhancement Agreements are intended to continually improve the
quality of education achieved by all Aboriginal students. Currently in B.C., there are 31 completed Enhancement Agreements;
16 Enhancement Agreements in the draft stage; and 13 Enhancement Agreements in the planning stage.11