SIFC facility gets much needed financial boost

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Increased government funding has created optimism in First Nations students and educators as they await a new facility for the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College.

"The architectural drawings are just being completed and construction will probably start at the end of this year," said Blair Stonechild, executive director of planning and development for the college. "The completion should come in the year 2000."

Recent government contributions have made a substantial impact on the process of the project, initiated 10 years ago.

"We are pleased with the increased level of funding from the federal and provincial governments," said Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations former Interim Chief Morley Watson. "It represents an important recognition of an investment in education for First Nations students."

The Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and Western Economic Diversification will each pitch in $5 million towards the $21 million project. SIFC will raise the rest.

The government of Saskatchewan has increased the college's operating grant by $866,000 in 1998/99 to $1.5 million allowing SIFC to negotiate the financing required to cover a $5 million mortgage. This relieves some of the financial pressure associated with the provision of programs and services for non-First Nations students attending the college, and will enable the institution to complete its capital financing.

"SIFC is thankful for this tangible support for productive educational partnerships between federal, provincial and Indian government," said Leonard Hardlotte, chairperson of the SIFC board of governors. "It will give generations of students greater opportunities to contribute to their families, communities and societies."

Being the only Indian-controlled college in the country recognized by the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, government support for the school is essential.

"From its establishment in 1976, with an enrollment of seven students, the SIFC has grown into a national institution with international recognition. This funding will enable it to meet current developmental needs as we approach the next millennium," said Watson.

Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Jane Stewart said the contribution is part of an initiative to recognize the Aboriginal community.

"As one of the objectives outlined in our action plan, Gathering Strength, earlier this year, the federal government reaffirmed its commitment to invest in Aboriginal peoples, communities and economies," she said.

The concept for the new building was completed by world-renowned Aboriginal architect Douglas Cardinal. Located on the University of Regina campus, the new structure will reflect the spirituality and heritage of its First Nations students by including the "circle and four directions."