The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has signed an agreement to collaborate on health research projects for Indigenous people.
The FSIN agreed to a partnership with Pewaseskwan – the Indigenous Wellness Research Group out of the University of Saskatchewan.
The two groups believe the partnership will help in the development of health-related projects for First Nations people in Saskatchewan.
Chair of the Research group, Dr. Alexandra King and FSIN vice-chief David Pratt signed the official agreement at an event at the university on Tuesday.
“Our leadership across the province consistently hear concerns from our people about the current state of the public health care system and how it does not always meet the needs of our people and community,” said Pratt in a media release on the event sent out by the university. “This collaborative relationship will help to identify and address some of those concerns and needs of our communities. We look forward to getting to work.”
“We are very excited and honoured to work with the FSIN on this important initiative. Current health systems do not reflect or accommodate the needs of First Nations people in Saskatchewan,” said Dr. Alexandra King in the same media release. “We will collaborate with the FSIN to create the framework and policies for First Nations people in Saskatchewan to facilitate and achieve self-determined wellness, at the individual, family and community levels.”
Pewaseskwan and the FSIN say they want to increase Indigenous leadership in health research across the province through collaboration. The two groups also say the partnership will explore opportunities in academic and community research as well.
(PHOTO: FSIN Vice-Chief David Pratt and Dr. Alexandra King signing a Memorandum of Understanding at the university. Photo by Kristen McEwen)