From May 27 to June 1, grade 11 students representing First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities from across Canada embarked on a week of exploratory research at the U of M, as part of the Verna J. Kirkness Science and Engineering Education Program.
This was the seventh consecutive year that the program was held at the U of M, while this year's participation number of 46 tied the record set in 2017. Feedback from the students has been overwhelmingly positive.
"Hearing that students participating in the Kirkness program go from unsure that post-secondary education is for them to excited to apply to the U of M and study here one day demonstrates the importance of creating pathways for Indigenous students," says Dr. Lynn Lavallée, Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement.
"Through providing opportunities for Indigenous students to stay in residence, connect with faculty members, get hands-on experience in labs and in the field, and learn about supports that are specifically for Indigenous students, they can see first-hand how this is a welcoming community for them."
