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The purpose of the First Nations Computer Technology Fund is to award laptop computers to First Nations post-secondary students in financial need. There are few, if any, resources available for providing much needed computer technology directly to First Nations students who have decided to pursue post-secondary education – computers owned directly by the student, not just available for use in an institutional setting.
Computer technology is essential in the current post-secondary environment. It is necessary for writing papers, using spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, undertaking research via the Internet, submitting assignments online and communicating with University faculty, staff and students via email. First Nations students unable to purchase a laptop and printer find themselves at a substantial disadvantage.
A frequent comment from laptop recipients was that many of them were finding their studies to be very difficult without the use of a laptop. Many with children had to hire extra evening childcare to return to school libraries to finish assignments. In light of the difficulties many Aboriginal students already face, the extra burden resulting from this lack of access to technology verges on unconscionable.
The first laptops and printers were awarded in September 2010. We are most grateful for the significant and generous grant provided to the First Nations Computer Technology Fund from the Healing Response Committee of the Anglican Church of Canada. The Healing Response Committee was pleased to support this initiative to assist the efforts of the Bishop’s Gospel Choir of British Columbia.
Your support of the First Nations Computer Technology Fund will enable us to expand this project to other areas of British Columbia.
The key criteria for Aboriginal students who apply to the First Nations Computer Technology Fund are:
- Candidates must be of aboriginal ancestry that originates within the boundaries of the Diocese of British Columbia (Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands). (By way of the Embracing Light from the Darkness project we hope to expand these boundaries to other areas of the province.)
- Candidates must be registered or commit to be registered in a post-secondary institution, vocational institute or other continuing education program with the purpose of entering an occupational path.
- The educational path must be such that a computer would be of significant benefit for the student to excel in their chosen field of study.
- Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated financial need.
The following are NOT criteria that the applicant must meet:
- The applicant does not have to be a member of the Diocese of British Columbia or have any religious affiliation.
- There is no minimum Grade Point Average level or requirement for outstanding scholastic achievement.
The 2011 Recipients of Laptop/Printer Awards:
- A student from the Penelakut First Nation. In third year study for a Bachelor of Arts – First Nations Studies Program, her goal is to continue with her education to obtain a Masters of Arts and then work with her First Nations community.
- A student in studies at the University of Victoria to obtain a Bachelors of Arts in Child and Youth Care. She wants to open a home for pregnant First Nations youth in crisis situations.
- A student from the Stz’uminus First Nation who studying to obtain a Certification of Business Management and then a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. The goal is to become a manager of a First Nations business.
- A student from the Quatsino First Nation in first year university studying First Nation studies and political science. She plans to continue on with her education to obtain a law degree to practise Aboriginal corporate law.
- An Aboriginal student in first year at the University of Victoria studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. Her goal is to work with and assist low income immigrant families.
- A student from the Dzawada’enuwx First Nation studying in the Indigenous Family Support Program and then go on to complete the Early Learning and Care Program.
The 2010 Recipients of Laptop/Printer Awards:
- A student from the Toquaht First Nation near Ucluelet, B.C. attending the University of Victoria with the goal of completing a Bachelor of Science degree before entering Medical School to become a physician.
- A student from the Tseycum First Nation near Victoria, B.C. enrolled in the Native Indian Teacher Education Program and will graduate with a Bachelor of Education degree.
- A First Nations student enrolled in the Indigenous Studies program at Camosun College in Victoria.
- A student from the Tsartlip First Nation near Victoria, B.C. enrolled in an Indigenous Family Support Program.
- A Métis student living in Victoria enrolled in the Community Mental Health program at Camosun College.
- A student with the K'ómoks First Nation near Comox, B.C. who is upgrading courses to enrol in a four year Business Degree.
- A student from the Tsartlip First Nation who is completing a Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Victoria.
- A student from the Pacheedaht First Nation near Port Renfrew, B.C. enrolled in the Child and Youth Care Program at the University of Victoria.
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~ Ansel Adams
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