Thompson Rivers University and the National Centre for First Nations Governance (NCFNG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding today that establishes a framework for both organizations to work together to research, develop, and deliver appropriate programs and courses to enhance the governance and administrative skills of First Nations people.

“This initiative strengthens TRU’s relationship with First Nations and increases our capacity to directly serve the needs of First Nations people,” said Kathleen Scherf, TRU President and Vice-Chancellor”. It is further evidence of TRU’s commitment to be the university of choice for Aboriginal Students and First Nations.”

“The National Centre for First Nations Governance is honoured to enter into this Memorandum of Understanding with Thompson Rivers University that will lead to the development of curriculum and research relevant to First Nation communities, ” stated the President of NCFNG, Satsan. “Through this partnership our organizations can work together to support First Nation communities as they build their capacity for governance.”

The TRU School of Business and Economics will be the first to act on the MOU with NCFNG to deliver training program for Band Councils. The topics covered will include band councillors’ roles, responsibilities and duties, working relationships with band members, band policies, strategic plans, status of band business, economic development and current issues facing the bands.

As the relationship between TRU and NCNFG further develops other faculties within TRU will be involved in delivering additional programs and courses to enhance the governance and administrative skills of First Nations.

The National Centre for First Nations Governance supports First Nations as they seek to implement its right to self-governance and helps them improve their day-to-day government operationsThe Centre is an independent, non-profit, service and research organization based from corporate headquarters in West Vancouver supported by five regional centres, including the operations centre in Ottawa.

Contact: Nathan Matthew, TRU Director First Nations Education, (p)250-377-6050 or Ed Allen, NCFNG Chief Executive Officer, (p) (604) 922-2052