A program in the Northwest Territories that pairs fluent speakers of Indigenous languages with learners is seeking new applicants.
In the Mentor-Apprentice Program, apprentices do everyday activities with their fluent mentor using only their Indigenous language.
The program’s guiding philosophy is “living life in the language.”
Apprentices accepted into the program will spend five to seven hours each week with their mentor, with the aim of completing 200 hours in total during a nine-month period that starts in May.
“The program is open to learners of all levels. Pairs are paid for their time in the program with funding from both the Government of the Northwest Territories and their Indigenous government,” the NWT government stated in a press release.
Advertisement.
Advertisement.
Languages available are Dene Kǝdǝ́, Dëne Sųłıné, Dene Zhatıé, Dinjii Zhu’ Ginjik, Inuinnaqtun, Inuvialuktun, nēhiyawēwin and Tłı̨chǫ.
“Ten pairs per Indigenous government partnership will be selected,” the GNWT added.
“It’s such a successful program. We had apprentices who were in the program three years in a row who became mentors,” Tłı̨chǫ Government language revitalization manager Jacynthia Rabesca told Cabin Radio in November last year.
“It’s so important for people to learn because we want our language to thrive. We want our language to be stronger, and the only way that’s going to happen is through creating more speakers.”
You need to apply by February 28, 2025, and mentors and apprentices must apply together. More information is available on the GNWT’s website.
