Choices for Indigenous Post-Secondary Education of Manitoba (CIPEM): Coming to a community near you!
Choices for Indigenous Post-Secondary Education of Manitoba (CIPEM) is a committee of representatives from Red River College Polytechnic, University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg, Assiniboine Community College, and Brandon University who work together and support each other to recruit Indigenous students from all over Manitoba.
They raise awareness of programs and share personal educational journeys that let students and communities know that no matter where you come from, our educational institutions try to meet the needs of Indigenous learners and communities.
Earlier this week, our Indigenous Liaison Advisor, Marshall (Shash) Richard, with members of CIPEM, visited Peguis Central School, Peguis Academic Learning Centre, Verna J. Kirkness Institute of Higher Learning (Fisher River), Fisher River High School, Lake St Martin First Nation School and Pinaymootang High School. Marshall and other recruiters shared with learners the opportunities and resources they have access to in Manitoba’s post-secondary institutions.
Education is not always linear, and we want Indigenous learners to know that anyone can go back to school. Life happens. CIPEM connects with students on a personal level and tries to show that there are options for wherever you may be at the moment or in the future.
CIPEM also reviews practical information students can use to plan ahead. RRC Polytech offers introductory programs and Pathway programs that help prepare students for full-time, industry-standard programs. Completion of introductory and Pathway programs can help students bypass waitlists, and they don’t have to decide on a major right away. These courses help students explore their options with culturally-inclusive wrap-around supports.
Getting out in the communities and making those person-to-person connections are what make the biggest impression on future students and their communities. Marshall and the other CIPEM recruiters are heading out again the week of October 31.
For more information, you can reach Marshall (Shash) Richard at indigenous@rrc.ca.