The Saskatchewan government hopes a new investment in computer software will address some of the educational gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students.

The government is investing $120,000 to include all First Nations schools in the provincial Microsoft Licensing Agreement.

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Vice-Chief Bobby Cameron says although the total investment may seem small, its impact will be large.

“This announcement facilitates Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan First Nations schools to continue the journey toward ensuring that all students, regardless of where they come from, can have access to the same educational programs and services available in the province,” he says.

The investment is in response to recommendations from the Joint Task Force on Improving Education and Employment Outcomes for First Nations and Metis People and will affect about 91 schools.

Education Minister Don Morgan says as a result, First Nations students will have access to the most up to date computer operating software.

“This one will make it easier for the teachers and professionals that are working on-reserve to have access to current computer equipment but, more importantly, it will allow students the opportunity to learn and use the most current software,” he says.

Don Dore, a technology consultant with the Prince Albert Grand Council, adds the investment brings First Nations schools in line with other provincial schools in terms of access to technology.

“This is what the provincial schools are using and it’s good for the students and our First Nations schools to be able to leave school with those skills of using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, those types of pieces of software,” he says.

In the recent provincial budget, the Saskatchewan government doubled the amount it has put aside to address recommendations from the joint task force from $3 million to $6 million.

The announcement was made in Saskatoon this morning.