Shaun Nanan, founder of Nanan STEM Academy in Moose Jaw and program head of Sask Polytech’s Computer Engineering Technology department, has announced a partnership with Cowessess First Nation.
The program is a major accomplishment for Nanan, who told MooseJawToday.com previously that he would love for his youth-focused Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) academy to become his fulltime job.
The program was initiated by Cowessess First Nation and Nanan STEM Academy alongside major sponsors K+S Potash, Saskatchewan Science Centre, David and Sarah Rosen, and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA).
Classes will be held at the Saskatchewan Science Centre in Regina and will focus on computer programming and robotics.
In a release announcing the collaboration, Nanan said the program provides students from Cowessess First Nation with the opportunity to learn while not sacrificing their culture and traditions.
The program will encourage students to use their unique perspective and Cree language in their projects and teach their non-indigenous instructors their Cree language, giving them a sense of pride and empowerment.
Students are supported during the program by their parents, guardians, and elders, who will be actively participating.
Chief Cadmus Delorme of Cowessess First Nation has said support from older generations is essential for Indigenous students, part of what he has called a “vertical lineage education system.”
“We have been delighted with the enthusiasm of the students who have taken part in the program so far,” Delorme said in the press release. “This is just the beginning, and we are confident that many of these students will help and inspire generations of Indigenous students reach their fullest potential in education and life.”
Sandy Pinay-Schindler (B.Ed., M.Ed.), who is Cowessess’ director education, said Cowessess is honoured to be working with the Nanan Academy and additional partners Cowessess Urban office, and the Cowessess community.
“The students and caregivers are very motivated to learn robotics, coding and to explore the Science Centre,” Pinay-Schindler said. “It is through meaningful and engaging opportunities and partnerships such as this one that we empower our young people and their families to learn and grow together.”
Nanan STEM Academy and Cowessess continue to seek additional partners to help them inspire, empower, and create a bright future for the next generation, whom they see as the world’s future creators of technology.
Those interested in learning more or supporting the program financially should browse the Nanan STEM Academy website at nananacademy.com.
