KAMLOOPS – In order to establish an ongoing process between Thompson Rivers University and Secwepemc Cultural Education Society and to strengthen communication and a cooperative working relationship on issues of mutual concern between the two institutions, the two parties signed a protocol agreement at TRU Nov. 8.
The agreement came about as a result of recognition by both parties that the Secwepemc people and TRU have a common interest in respecting and recognizing each other’s work in the areas of training and higher education, as well as in working in partnership and cooperation in support of each other’s interests and educational goals.
“The two organizations will establish a process of regular meetings in order to develop common understandings and/or strategies on matters of mutual concern,” said TRU VP Academic and Provost Mark Evered. “We will also be looking at exploring opportunities to provide TRU programs like adult upgrading, trades and technology training and international development on band lands, and establishing a chair for Shuswap Studies, including a Sewepemctsin language component.”
Chief Keith Matthew, chief of the Simpcw First Nation and president of the SCES, was pleased to formalize an agreement with TRU.
“Our Secwepemc communities that are involved in SCES are proud to sign this agreement signalling a positive working relationship with our local university,” he said. “This marks a historic time for our people and we look forward to programs that will build our capacity to manage our band governments and build a new future together for our people.”
The Secwepemc Cultural Education Society is comprised of 13 of the 17 Secwepemc communities that support the SCES. It was created to preserve, record, perpetuate and enhance the language, culture and history of the Secwepemc people, and to build the capacity of aboriginal peoples toward self-reliance and self-determination through training and higher education, and to foster relationships between the Secwepemc people and other cultures
For more information, please contact:
Chief Keith Matthew: 250-828-9778 Dr. Mark Evered: 250-377-6126
