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Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education Institute has been renamed. The new brand was unveiled at the Nishnawbe Aski Nation Chiefs Winter Assembly on Jan. 30. The institute will now be know as Oshki-Pimache-O-Win The Wenjack Education Institute, with a new logo which encompasses a tribute to the memory of Chanie “Charlie” Wenjack.
This is the result of a promise made in October 2016 when Nishnawbe Aski Nation announced its intent to rename on the 50th anniversary of Wenjack’s tragic death. Wenjack, 12, froze to death on Oct. 22, 1966 after fleeing the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School in Northwestern Ontario.
In 2016, the boy’s story was broadcast to the world through a multi-media project titled “The Secret Path”, which was led by the late Gord Downie. It included a solo album, graphic novel and animated film.
Wenjack’s short life has become a symbol of the residential school era in Canada. His story has been an inspiration for Canadians to do better in the era of truth and reconciliation.
“The name is a lasting legacy for all residential school survivors across NAN territory and recognition of the multi-generational impacts their experiences have had on families, communities and nations,” said Rosie Mosquito, executive director of the institute. “Oshki-Pimache-O-Win The Wenjack Education Institute is a symbol of new beginnings through Indigenous-centered education and training.”
The institute also unveiled a new $3-million mobile trades trailer which provides more than 1,800 square feet of classroom and lab space that can accommodate 16 students. The lab is equipped for instruction in a variety of skilled trades, such as welding, heavy equipment, machining, plumbing, electrical, millwright and carpentry. The unit also has wireless Internet and satellite.
“The Mobile Trades Trailer is a high-tech skilled trades laboratory on wheels that can be deployed anywhere to provide trades training opportunities for those who might not otherwise be able to access specialized skills training,” said Gordon Kakegamic, Innovations and Training Coordinator. “This new unit recognizes and respects learners’ strong ties to community and culture, and supports the need to deliver relevant education and training opportunities where our people live. Oshki-Pimache-O-Win The Wenjack Education Institute can now bring trades training learning opportunities closer to First Nation communities across the NAN territory.”
The Mobile Trades Trailer will remove barriers that individuals currently face, such as financial, geographical and cultural challenges. “This new learning tool brings education directly to our people and provides a sense of security as students learn and master skills close to home,” said Mosquito.
The institute is in development of a deployment plan for the trailer and they are sourcing out additional funding to ensure the program’s success, a press statement reads.
