Launch of a new education era for first nations

[afn.ca]

Royalty in Regina Helps Launch New Education Era For First Nations

"This is a proud day for First Nations, a proud day for the people of Saskatchewan and a great day for all our First Nations youth."
National Chief, Matthew Coon Come

June 24, 2003

The First Nations University of Canada, formerly the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, is being hailed as, "an exemplary model of governance and self-determination by First Nations for First Nations."

The description comes from AFN National Chief Matthew Coon Come, who was among the many V.I.P.'s and dignitaries who attended a formal ceremony for the grand opening of the university's new building, on National Aboriginal Day.

Prince Edward was there to unveil a plaque to mark the historic occasion of the opening of the unique institution, launching a new education era for first nations.

The First Nations University of Canada in Regina, Saskatchewan is the first aboriginal-run university in the country. National Chief Coon Come, said, "It is an example of how First Nations can design and implement their
own institutions, while working in partnership with the federal, provincial
and local governments, as well as business and other organizations."

The First Nations University of Canada is seen as a powerful way to help more First Nations students complete their post-secondary education.

Chief Perry Bellegarde of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations stated, "We now have a permanent home and institution that will assist in taking our people into the future fully trained in the academics as well as in our own First Nations ways - this is the good balance we all strive for and one that will ensure continued success and positive growth for our people and Nations for generations to come."

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Saskatchewan Indian Federated College

Official Opening of the SIFC Building
-Saturday, June 21, 2003-

AGENDA

7:30 a.m. PIPE CEREMONY
9:45 a.m. GRAND MARCH
Royalty, Chiefs, Veterans, alumni, will follow the Historic Landau (with His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex and Their Honours, Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Lynda Haverstock and Mr. Olsen) from Luther Parking Lot to south west entrance of First Nations Way begins (counter-clock-wise).
Official Introductions
Official Greetings to His Royal Highness and Their Honours to the SIFC Executive.

Official entry of His Royal Highness—His Royal Highness and Their Honours will, with above SIFC and FSIN dignitaries, enter the tent. The Masters of Ceremonies provide an official announcement of Royalty to the audience.

Vice Regal Song –Upon announcement of entry, the Regina Symphony Orchestra will play the Vice Regal Song in honour of Her Honour’s presence (Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Lynda Haverstock).



QUEENS FLAG SONG AND VICTORY SONG.

Guests will rise and stand as the Drum Group singing the Traditional Flag Song (made in honour of Her Royal Highness, The Queen of England) followed by a Victory Song.

OPENING PRAYER

OFFICIAL SPEECHES

PRESENTATION OF GIFT

The SIFC will present a gift to His Royal Highness and Her Honour.

UNVEILING OF BUILDING SIGNAGE

Designated dignitaries and Elders will unveil a stone podium, which will represent the official announcement of "First Nations University of Canada".

OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE FIRST NATIONS UNIVERSITY OF CANADA

As the Drum Group sings an Honour Song, dignitaries, Chiefs, designated SIFC students will proceed through the doors as a symbol of the official opening of the First Nations University of Canada.



10:45 a.m. CLOSING REMARKS AND INTRODUCTION AND INVITE TO POW WOW


11:00 am RECEPTION
The SIFC will host a reception in front of the Tipis south of the big tent.


2:00 pm SIFC POW WOW GRAND ENTRY
Elders, Chiefs, and Veterans will gather to participate in the 1st Grand Entry of the 25th Annual Competition Pow Wow. Dignitaries and donor are invited to partipate.