Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, at this time of the year, many colleges, universities and other post-secondary institutions and high school academic years are coming to an end. For most students, their semester is already over and this is the time for celebration. I’m sure many students are happy that their final exams are over and that summer has arrived. But more importantly, this is a season in which graduation is celebrated and it is in recognition of a student's successes, success for all the students in the Northwest Territories.

Madam Speaker, I’m proud to recognize the academic achievements of nine students from the Sahtu who have recently graduated from Aurora College in Fort Smith and two students at the Yellowknife Campus. For the individual graduates and for their communities and Aurora College, this is a celebration of talent, sustained effort and belief in the importance of learning.

These graduates work hard and the graduation day captures the pride and accomplishment and success of these students. Every single graduate represents a story of achievement and a wonderful promise for the future, just as these students have become important role models and future leaders in their communities. There are also 23 potential high school graduates from the Sahtu who have demonstrated commitment and discipline to create a brighter future for themselves and their determination has been recognized by all.

Madam Speaker, these students can be proud of the education they receive here in the Northwest Territories. This will reward them for the rest of their lives.

Madam Speaker, I would like to also recognize Sheena Kochon of Colville Lake who will be celebrating her graduation ceremony at 4:00 today with her community.

In addition, Madam Speaker, two elders from the Sahtu region were recognized and awarded special certificates by Aurora College in Inuvik for their contribution and dedication to teaching their aboriginal language. Mr. Maurice Mendo of Tulita and Ms. Rosie Sewi of Deline received honourary Aboriginal Language and Culture Instructor Certificates and both of them are called our Dene professors of linguistics.

In closing, I would like to recognize the parents and the teachers and the various organizations that have fostered and developed the academic successes of our students. Their constant support provides a foundation of success of individuals and entire communities that deserve recognition. Mahsi cho, Madam Speaker.

---Applause