Aboriginal-focused
studies help students
achieve careers in law enforcement
|
Students
in the Aboriginal Studies Program share |
By Angelle Meunier
A new educational opportunity has been developed for those striving for a career in law enforcement focused on aboriginal communities.
Norquest College, Northern Lakes College and Grant MacEwan College are offering the Aboriginal Police Studies certificate program developed at the request of the Public Security Branch of the Alberta Solicitor General.
"I'm very excited about the opportunities for the First Nations students involved with this program," said Solicitor General Heather Forsyth. "Alberta needs qualified, trained First Nations officers. This is a tremendous opportunity for the 40 students enrolled in the program."
Karen Adams is a professor in the Aboriginal Police Studies program at Grant MacEwan College and says she is impressed by the first group of students.
"They are very focused and work to support each other through the program. They are similar to a troop of officers that work together."
Adams, recently retired after 28 years of service with the RCMP, has many stories to share with her students. She encourages the students to participate and share some of their own personal stories as well.
"I find the stories have a big impact, they help to open my mind, and bring me back to my roots," said Jenn Kroetsch, one of the students.
The certificate was designed to prepare students for the cognitive abilities and written communication skills tests while teaching law, ethics, history, culture and fitness. The focus of the program is on the aboriginal community but is not limited to aboriginal persons.
In 1998, Solicitor General staff recognized a void in preparing potential police officers for a career in law enforcement. There was an increasing need in the area of First Nations policing and the interest to develop a specific training program. Alberta Learning granted a conditional one-year approval for the program, with the first group of students starting classes in September.
Upon completing the certificate program, students will choose which police service they wish to enter at the federal, municipal or First Nation level.
