In 2004, CMEC declared Aboriginal education to be a priority issue deserving targeted activity. This commitment was reaffirmed in Learn Canada 2020, the framework that the ministers are using to enhance Canada’s educational systems, in which Aboriginal education was identified as one of the specific activity areas.
In establishing Aboriginal education as a priority, ministers have acknowledged the need to find new and varied ways of working together and in partnership with Aboriginal leaders and communities, as well as with the federal government, to improve outcomes for Aboriginal students at all levels of education. Ultimately, with Learn Canada 2020 as their framework, ministers responsible for education in all jurisdictions have committed to eliminating the gap in academic achievement and graduation rates between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students.
Two examples illustrate this commitment:
- Aboriginal Education Action Plan — With three key objectives, the action plan is central to a more coordinated strategic approach by which the provinces and territories work together with Aboriginal leaders and the learning sector, as well as with the federal government. The long-term goals of the plan include more positive Aboriginal learning experiences, improved student well-being, increased success for Aboriginal students, and improved labour-market integration for Aboriginal peoples.
- Summit on Aboriginal Education — The summit, which took place in February 2009, brought together key stakeholders, including ministers of education and of Aboriginal affairs, national and regional Aboriginal organizations, and federal government representatives, to discuss issues related to Aboriginal education.