Indigenous Community Health Approaches Program Graduation

Graduating class of 2006 included: Audrey Anderson, Wanda Antone, Cindy Carpenter, Cindy Ecker-Flagg, Kim Henry, Betty Maracle, Cindy Martin, Dawn “Bloss”, Shani Martin, Alberta Monture, Gail Whitlow, Shani Martin, Alberta Monture, Gail Whitlow, Amy Williams

First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) graduation was held on November 10, 2006 for Six Nations residents who successfully completed the Indigenous Community Health Approaches program that was delivered at the Grand River Territory over the last year. The learners were awarded an Indigenous Community Health approach Program (post-diploma) graduate certificate.

The Indigenous Community Health Approaches program explores Indigenous knowledge and philosophies as they relate to human health and the natural environment. The program is rooted in Indigenous knowledge and exposes First Nations health professionals to cultural teachings which broaden their understanding about health, health care and environmental and human health issues facing First Nations communities.

This one-year graduate certificate (post-diploma) program provided the First Nations health professional with the opportunity to acquire new skills and understandings. The program of study outlines how cultural knowledge can be applies in resolving health issues facing First Nations communities, while creating opportunities for enrichment of their own personal cultural knowledge.

The program consists of twelve courses totaling 600 hours of study. The program is offered through a partnership agreement between First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) and St. Lawrence College of Applied Arts and Technology.

Instructors for the course include: Suzanne Brant and Janice Brant, both from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory; as well as Norma General, Dan Longboat and Rick Hill, all from Six Nations.

The graduation ceremony took place Friday, November 10, 2006 at the Six Nations Community Hall.