Students in the Dehcho region are getting some valuable insights into the mining sector this week.

Mining Matters — a program which educates students about the basics of mining — is being presented by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment’s Client Services and Community Relations Division (CSCR).

The  presentations will be made in Fort Simpson, Fort Providence, and Fort Liard at Thomas Simpson, Deh Gah, and Echo Dene schools respectively.

The curriculum uses practical in-class activities to demonstrate mining essentials, and informative seminars to outline careers in the sector.  It aims to inspire students to further their education with a view to seizing opportunities within the NWT’s mining and exploration sector.

The direct and indirect benefits of mining today make up 40% of the NWT economy— the largest private sector share.

Days one and two at Thomas Simpson Secondary School and Fort Providence High School, went off without a hitch. “We already received feedback from teachers,” said Valerie Gordon — the CSCR representative coordinating the trip. “In both instances, it was the ‘cookie mining’ demonstrating  the mining cycle, that was best received.”

Mining Matters was delivered to schools in the Sahtu in April of this year. The program is supported by the Government of the Northwest Territories as part of its commitment under the Mineral Development Strategy to increase community engagement, and its overall dedication to supporting education and career advancement.

ITI’s Client Service and Community Relations Unit serves as the consistent first point of contact within the GNWT to help industry ad communities maximize economic opportunities from resource exploration and development.