The CLS synchrotron

A promising partnership

With a focus on traditions and culture for First Nations students, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) and the Canadian Light Source (CLS) signed an agreement of collaboration during the annual Saskatchewan First Nations Science Fair.

By University Communications

The agreement will allow both parties to work together to enhance education in the field of science for First Nation students.

The agreement means staff from the CLS will be invited to attend science related events in First Nation schools. In addition, teachers from First Nation schools will be invited to attend CLS workshops.

FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron calls the agreement a positive step that will help students pursue a career in the field of science. "The partnership will provide additional resources for our students and teachers," said Chief Cameron. "The agreement further enhances our Inherent, Treaty and Indigenous peoples right ​to education. Our students will get a chance to meet potential mentors and future colleagues in Saskatchewan's scientific community."

CLS CEO Robert Lamb looks forward to the relationship. "We are excited to introduce our facility, the most complex scientific instrument and brightest light in Canada, to a new audience of future researchers and innovators in this province," said Lamb. "The Canadian Light Source is committed to enabling innovation in the province and the country. Working with FSIN to support and facilitate First Nations education helps us achieve that by encouraging fresh perspectives in science."

Each year FSIN coordinates science mobile school visits and festivals to 40 or more schools presenting science and math, and recruiting students for the possibility of future health careers at post-secondary institutions (technical and university). In addition FSIN hosts students at the SFNSF to select representatives to attend the Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Science Camp and the Canada Wide Science Fair.

Over the last 10 years CLS has developed a unique combination of experimental facilities and leading scientific users from across Canada and around the world. The impact is evident: ground breaking research ranging from cancer to HIV and multiple sclerosis, from the environment to energy and agriculture, and from archeology and history to nuclear science. Part of CLS' impact has been to develop educational programming to support infusion of current scientific research into science education across Canada.

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan. The Federation is committed to honouring the spirit and intent of the Treaties, as well as the promotion, protection and implementation of the Treaty promises that were made more than a century ago.