Native Communications celebrates 20 years

Page S10

In 1995 the Native Communications Program at Grant MacEwan Community College will mark its 20th graduating class.

Education is about people -- making a difference in the lives of individuals, their communities and ultimately in the world. The Native Communications Program has played a significant role in the lives of many Aboriginal people -- in career and cultural education.

In 1968, The Alberta Native Communication Society produced Canada's first Aboriginal weekly newspaper, The Native People.

In 1974 that society introduced radio and TV programs for and about Aboriginal people.

"At the time we all just learned on the job. We were in on the ground floor and there were great creative opportunities... you learned by your mistakes. But as the paper grew the need was identified for training in this area," explains Jane Woodward, program chair.

The program was established and in 1978 moved to Grant MacEwan Community College. This eight-month program is not intended to be the only educational experience its students need, but is rather a stepping stone.

"This program opens up a whole world for many students and gives them the opportunity to move on to other education or training and helps to give them direction in their lives," says Woodward. "Each student must make a three-year commitment -- one year in Native Communications and then at least two years in another college or university program."

The curriculum has been developed to educate the whole person. Courses in Native culture give many students their first glimpse at their own heritage and tradition. Canadian history and the Aboriginal role are explored as well as current issues affecting Native people.