Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Throughout our Territory, graduation and convocation ceremonies are taking place to acknowledge the great and many achievements of our talented and gifted students.

We have over 8,600 students enrolled in grades kindergarten to 12 in 49 schools across the North. As each student progresses to each new grade level, they bring with them many lessons and skills to further build on and develop. We congratulate these students for their hard work and recognize their efforts in successfully completing an important educational milestone.

At the post-secondary level, 2009-2010 saw 102 Aurora College graduates in two degree programs, seven diploma programs and four certificate programs. Of these, I’m proud to say that 68 percent are aboriginal graduates. Four of the aboriginal graduates are from Behchoko. They are distinguished gradates of the Behchoko community-based Teacher Education Program. We intend to welcome these individuals into our schools next fall as teachers and hope others will follow their example.

In addition to our graduates, each year there are hundreds of people participating in other education and training programs. I want to congratulate students from the Adult Literacy and Basic Education programs and Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification programs on their achievements.

Mr. Speaker, this June everyone is welcome to attend the Aboriginal Honour Ceremony at the Weledeh River, hosted by the Yellowknife Campus. As we continue our focus on aboriginal student achievement, I am confident we will see more and

more aboriginal students celebrating graduations and pursuing further education.

In closing, I would like to recognize and thank all the educators, the tutors and the classroom assistants committed to helping our students find success in achieving their goals. From kindergarten to post-secondary, the achievements of our students are yours to share. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.