SIIT, SIGA sign scholarship agreement
- EFN Staff | April 11, 2014
Students at SIIT have another tool available to help them become successful. The school recently hosted the signing of a collaborative agreement between SIIT and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA).
SIIT will receive a cheque for $50,000 for their scholarship programming from SIGA, and this will be matched with funds from the Province of Saskatchewan's Innovation and Opportunities program. So the total amount awarded through the Scholarship Program will be $100,000 based on the availability of the provincial government's matching grant.
"The Provincial Government recognizes the value of post-secondary education and how it benefits our growing economy," said Advanced Education Minister Rob Norris. "This new agreement will provide more scholarship opportunities for SIIT students, making it easier for them to transition from learning to earning."
Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Felix Thomas and SIGA Board Chair was also on hand for the announcement.
"This partnership will support the common interests of all parties involved. Advanced education, training and employment opportunities for the First Nation people of Saskatchewan will directly benefit from this agreement," said Tribal Chief Thomas.
President and CEO of SIIT Riel Bellegarde added that "today's announcement creates a much needed scholarship investment for SIIT students, and opens the door for employment and career opportunities for our students within SIGA."
SIIT will award scholarships in SIGA's name in 2013-2014: 10 Scholarships at $5,000 each for entrance students (1st year students) and 10 Scholarship Awards at $5,000 each for continuing students.
"We want to strengthen the lives of Saskatchewan and First Nations people through employment, economic growth and community relations. By establishing strategic alliances such as this, SIGA will be well positioned in fulfilling its mission as an organization," said Zane Hansen President and CEO (SIGA).
SIGA's existing scholarship criteria will be utilized to determine scholarship award recipients, and SIGA along with representatives from SIIT will create a joint review committee that will review scholarship applications and award recipients.