Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In all our communities we’re seeing the happy faces of high school graduates. Across the territory there will be about 400 grads. I’m especially proud of the graduates in Deh Cho communities.
Graduation rates are increasing but we still lag behind the rest of Canada, especially in our small communities. Even so, there are more opportunities than ever as technology and communications have improved so much in remote communities.
It is a big step in our lives to go to college or university. Many students may feel that it’s too expensive, but it is an investment that pays off long into the future. We don’t often mention the life experiences that you will get or the lifelong friendships that you will likely make.
The Northwest Territories has one of the most generous student financial assistance packages in the country, with grants and forgivable loans. There are hundreds more scholarships available through band councils, community organizations, industry and the schools themselves. It is true that finding and applying for these grants takes a little bit of time and effort, just as it does to get high marks in school. Almost all jobs with competitive wages and benefits require further study after high school. Those who don’t finish high school or go further, run the risk of staying in low-paying jobs in sectors where they never find fulfillment or reach their potential.
To all graduates, I would say you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. If you are afraid or stepping out into an expensive field of study you may not enjoy, or if you have taken that risk and it didn’t work out, don’t be discouraged. You will learn valuable lessons about yourself and your future along the way. You’ll probably come away with much more than you expected. That is how life is when you make decisions for yourself. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. The Member for Yellowknife Centre, Mr. Hawkins.
