The Malahat Nation and Camosun College held a special ceremony on Monday, Oct.28 to celebrate the launch of their partnership in the delivery of SOAR, an adult education program designed to uplift Mel’uxulh mustimuhw (Malahat People).
Supporting opportunities, achievement and resilience or SOAR was launched in September and is now at capacity with 14 students.
“With the Malahat Nation promising to become one of the biggest economic drivers on South Vancouver Island, the SOAR Adult Education Program prepares Mel’uxulh mustimuhw to fill job opportunities at all levels, including trades, STEM, clerical and management roles,” said Malahat Nation CAO Josh Handysides.
Camosun College will deliver the SOAR program within the community teaching courses in English and math.
“We want to see them succeed and thrive whether in gaining employment or being successful in other college or university programs," said Dr. Lane Trotter, Camosun College president.
“Permanent, full-time jobs are coming, we want our people to feel ready for all of these opportunities and lead the economic development at the Malahat Nation,” said Malahat Nation Chief Gordon Harry.
The SOAR adult education program is designed to close the Grade “8 -10 void” through foundational literacy and numeracy skills, prepare participants to confidently transition into Grade 11-12 adult education programs or post-secondary education and enhance employability by equipping learners with the skills they need to be competitive in the labour market and achieve their full potential.
The adult education program is funded through the Indigenous Skills Training and Education Program from the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
