College attracting students province-wide

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The opportunities for Native educational development are unique at the Maskwachees Cultural College in Hobbema.

And the dean of student services says there are many people willing to take advantage of what the school has to offer.

Enrollment is increasing every year, Fern Thompson says, especially for those wanting to go on for a university education.

"We're getting a good number of people wanting to continue on," she says.

The 15 year old college, situated in the confines of the old Hobbema residential school, was first established to cater to residents of the Four Nations of Hobbema.

But now, Thompson says, other Native from around Alberta are given the chance to advance their education and careers.

"Of course we have to satisfy their (Hobbema residents) needs first. But we are open to others after that," she adds.

The school usually reaches its capacity enrollment of 400 students, she said.

"And there are a number of outreach sites located throughout the reserve."

The college has a department exclusively devoted to Cree culture with Cree language and Cree studies courses.

The most unique feature of the college, says Thompson, are the people that work there.

She says most of the 25-member teaching staff are from the Hobbema area, and she feels they are the best suited to teach the cultural curriculum.

There are, of course, professional teachers to instruct in the advanced university classes, she notes.

The majority of students come to Maskwachees to study education, business management and social work.

Thompson says the college administration plans to introduce a science course in the future.

This year there are 35 people registered in the first year university program; 25 people in the continuing studies course, 30 in the advanced adult program, 30 in the basic adult

program and 60 in the combined upgrading and skills program.

Courses start Sept. 6. For more information call student services at 585-3925.