Former prime minister Paul Martin stopped by Saugeen District Secondary School in Port Elgin today to discuss a new program for First Nations students.
The Martin Aboriginal Education Initiative, along with Bruce Power and the Bluewater District School Board launched the Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneur Program, which aims to provide Grade 11 and 12 students with business and financial knowledge.
Martin says it's a small part of the solution to a problem created by the education systems in Canada, which he says have left Aboriginal students behind for generations.
He says First Nations youth is one of the fastest growing segments of the Canadian population, and with improved educational programs available, it will only benefit the Canadian economy over the long term.
Bruce Power and the Community Foundation Grey Bruce also announced separate scholarship programs for Saugeen First Nation students, which have been named in Martin's honour.
Martin says he has noticed the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in this area is far better than most areas of the country and thinks scholarship programs are an example of that.
"I had a tremendous visit last year with the Grey Bruce foundation. I've had, obviously, a connection with this school. Bruce Power would've done this [regardless]. To have those scholarships in my name is very touching, but most importantly is to have those scholarships for those kids. That's what really counts," says Martin.
Saugeen First Nation Chief Vernon Roote says he hopes the youth of his community take advantage of the new opportunities, adding it's a recognition of the struggles that Aboriginal youth face trying to establish themselves after their school careers.