Inuit leader lauds master of education grads

On June 1, 2013 another milestone in Inuit education will be reached with the graduation of 13 women with a Masters of Education –Leadership in Learning from the University of Prince Edward Island.

These remarkable women will join the ranks of the 21 other graduates who received their Masters of Education degrees on Canada Day in 2009.

The MEd graduates have completed course work and research in Inuit education required to fulfill the requirements of the UPEI Faculty of Education. They have done this at the same time as holding down jobs and family responsibilities –an achievement worthy of recognition and celebration throughout Inuit Nunangat and Canada.

If we are going to graduate more students from Grade 12 we need strong leadership to drive change in Inuit education.

The Government of Nunavut made a commitment to developing education leaders and scholars through their investment in the MEd program and I want to congratulate them for the foresight they demonstrated with this investment.

It is said that each generation must decide if it wants to settle for the world of their parents, or if they want to improve upon the past.

In education, I believe it is our responsibility to honour our parents and elders and past generations by leading a new era Inuit education, shaped by leaders like those we see graduating this month.

Congratulations to the following graduates on your achievement:

• Vera Arnatsiaq, Igloolik,

• Rhoda Cunningham, Iqaluit,

• Mary Etuangat,Pangnirtung

• Louise Flaherty, Iqaluit

• Lizzie Aumauk Iblauk, Arviat

• Bertha A. Iglooyouak, Baker Lake

• Mary-Joanne Kauki, Kuujjuaq

• Adriana Kusugak, Rankin Inlet

• Saimanaaq Pat Netser, Arviat

• Eva Qirniq Noah, Baker Lake

• Maggie Putulik, Rankin Inlet

• Susan Tigullaraq, Iqaluit

•Becky Tootoo, Baker Lake

Ladies… you are an inspiration. My very best wishes to you as you begin the next chapter in your journey.

Mary Simon
Chairperson,
National Committee on Inuit Education

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