THE FINANCIAL FAILURE OF FIRST NATIONS EDUCATION IN CANADA

The Challenges for Indigenous Religious Freedom in Canada Today

Authors

  • Denise Humphreys University of Manitoba
  • Manreet Kaur-Nehal University of Saskatchewan

Abstract

Abstract
The underfunding of First Nations K-12 education in Canada has created
a disparity in the quality of education received by First Nations
students compared to non-First Nations students. Understanding the
connection between funding and student outcomes might prove useful
in confronting this disparity. Additional funding will not resolve all education
problems, so those evaluating funding and policy interventions
would benefit from considering factors such as efficiency, effectiveness,
equity and the social context of learning.
To create social change and understand if policy is a suitable tool for intervention,
it is helpful to understand why the gap in education exists. If
the gap does result in disparity of education outcomes, it is a worthwhile
subject to explore. In this case, the gap is suggested to affect student outcomes
and Indigenous communities and organizations have reiterated
this to the federal government (Assembly of First Nations, 2017).

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Published

2026-03-27

How to Cite

Humphreys, D., & Kaur-Nehal, M. (2026). THE FINANCIAL FAILURE OF FIRST NATIONS EDUCATION IN CANADA: The Challenges for Indigenous Religious Freedom in Canada Today. Canadian Journal of Native Studies, 40(2). Retrieved from https://journals.brandonu.ca/cjnsoa/article/view/3145