CNF pleads for francophone minority education in the Canada's House of Commons.

Collège Nordique's General Manager called as a witness in the House of Commons to defend Francophone post-secondary education in minority communities. 

On April 11, 2024, Patrick Arsenault, General Manager of Collège Nordique, had the privilege of testifying before the Canadian House of Commons. This intervention was of paramount importance, highlighting the issues and challenges facing French-language educational institutions in minority settings, particularly in the Northwest Territories. 

Located in the heart of the Chief Drygeese territory, Collège Nordique plays an essential role in promoting and supporting French-language education north of the 60th parallel. Its presence is vital to the region's francophones and francophiles. 

In his address, Patrick Arsenault emphasized the importance of federal support in strengthening Collège Nordique's ability to serve Francophones in the region and those who come into contact with them. He highlighted the federal government's investments in programs such as post-secondary top-up funding and bilateral agreements for minority-language education.

Mr. Arsenault also highlighted the persistent challenges facing Collège Nordique, including

• Precarious federal funding
• Territorial contribution requirements
• High operating costs 

To overcome these obstacles, the General Manager proposed innovative solutions, including :

• Increased accessibility to French-language learning programs for newcomers
• Sustainable funding for French-language post-secondary education
• Establishing a mechanism for direct financial engagement with the federal government. 

Despite the challenges of funding and support, Collège Nordique remains committed to providing quality French-language education and playing a leading role in strengthening Francophone communities in minority settings. 

Thanks to its expertise in language didactics and its commitment to reconciliation, Collège Nordique has established partnerships with the region's indigenous nations to teach two of the nine official Aboriginal languages. It has also developed English and French learning resources for new immigrants, incorporating indigenous cultural references and Aboriginal language learning modules. 

Through its recommendations and advocacy, Collège Nordique, led by General Manager Patrick Arsenault, demonstrates visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to Francophone education in minority settings. It embodies the very essence of resilience and determination in the promotion of French language and culture in Canada.