Miꞌkmaq–Nova Scotia–Canada Tripartite Forum facts for kids

The Miꞌkmaq–Nova Scotia–Canada Tripartite Forum is a special group that started in 1997. It brings together the Miꞌkmaq people, the government of Nova Scotia, and the government of Canada. Their main goal is to solve problems they all care about.

The Forum wants to help Mi'kmaw communities grow and thrive. They also work to build good relationships with all other Nova Scotians.

In 2007, an important plan called the Miꞌkmaq–Nova Scotia–Canada Framework Agreement was made. This agreement confirmed that everyone would work together. They promised to solve issues about Miꞌkmaq rights through talks. The idea was to make things clearer and improve relationships. It also aimed to reduce differences in how people live and earn money.

Another big agreement was signed on August 31, 2010. This was the Miꞌkmaq–Nova Scotia–Canada Consultation Terms of Reference. It set out clear steps for governments to follow. These steps ensure they talk with the Miꞌkmaq people when making decisions that affect them.

Miꞌkmaw Kinaꞌmatnewey: A Success Story

One of the biggest achievements of the Tripartite Forum is the Miꞌkmaw Kinaꞌmatnewey. This is an education program for Miꞌkmaq students. It is known as the most successful First Nation education program in all of Canada.

The first school run by the Miꞌkmaq opened in Nova Scotia in 1982. By 1997, Miꞌkmaq communities on reserves took full control of their own education. Today, there are 11 schools in Nova Scotia that are run by Miꞌkmaq bands.

Nova Scotia now has the highest number of Indigenous students staying in school across the country. More than half of the teachers in these schools are Miꞌkmaq themselves. From 2011 to 2012, there was a 25% increase in Miꞌkmaq students going to university. Atlantic Canada also has the highest rate of Indigenous students attending university in Canada.