Canada works with Canadian universities to reduce international poverty
Today, the Hon. Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue recognised support for the international poverty reduction efforts at the University of Prince Edward Island. In partnership with Canadian universities, this project will deliver concrete results for people living in Chiloe, Chile. Canadians want to make a difference for those in need around the world and expect real results from Canada's international assistance. Our Government will work with Canadian universities to deliver tangible results for people in developing countries,' said Minister Shea. 'By tapping into their expertise, Canada will help provide the essentials for people in need, and give them the economic tools they need to become self-sufficient over the long-term.'
Today's event, supported through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) Partners for Development Program's call for proposals, will help the University of Prince Edward Island to examine the social and cultural context of how young indigenous people live and learn, and build a unique school and curriculum based on that knowledge. This project will allow UPEI to share our knowledge, skills and capacity towards sustainable operation of a school that will support development of dignified, sustainable livelihoods in remote small island Indigenous communities.
'This project builds on a relationship of trust and respect between Islanders of PEI and Chiloe that has developed over the past seven years,' said Dr. Irene Novaczek, Director of UPEI's Institute of Island Studies, and co-leader of this initiative, along with Dr. Kate Tilleczek, Canada Research Chair in Child/Youth Cultures and Transitions. 'This project gives us a brilliant opportunity to make a significant positive impact on the lives of young people in Williche territory who struggle with many of the same issues faced by rural indigenous youth here in Canada. In the process, we will also learn and grow, in ways that will enrich what we offer to UPEI students and to the wider Island community.'
The University of Prince Edward Island was one of 15 different schools and 17 different projects that CIDA selected to implement projects around the world that will stimulate sustainable economic growth, secure the future of children and youth, increase food security and advance Canada's commitments on maternal, newborn and child health. The selected Canadian universities will implement the projects in partnership with institutions and organizations in developing countries, to ensure the results will directly benefit people in need.
The total CIDA contribution the University of Prince Edward Island is $3,778,270. UPEI's contribution is $1,548,059, which is 29 percent of the cost of the project.
For more information on the Partners for Development Program and the call for proposals process, please visit CIDA's website at www.cida.gc.ca/partnership.
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