For quality educational services in Nunavik that respect Inuit culture

  • October 24, 2018

Rapport sur les services éducatifs du Nunavik

In a special investigation report released on October 24, 2018, the Protecteur du citoyen calls on the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur to do more to fulfil its obligations towards Kativik School Board, in Nunavik.

The investigation by the Protecteur du citoyen showed that several factors, including the following, make it more difficult for Inuit youth all the way through school:

  • Starting in Grade 4, subjects from the curriculum (mathematics, sciences, social studies, etc.) are taught exclusively in French or English, even though, up to that point, Inuktitut has been the primary language of instruction;
  • The pedagogical program is not fully adapted to their culture and realities;
  • Students cannot take Secondary V science and mathematics;
  • Access to postsecondary education and general education in the adult sector is very limited;
  • Services for students with difficulties or disabilities are scanty.

"The Department has adopted a restrictive vision of its role. In so doing, it does not provide the school board with the tools it needs to fulfil its mandate." – Marie Rinfret, Ombudsperson

The Protecteur du citoyen makes 14 recommendations to the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur. One of them, which concerns services for students with difficulties or disabilities, is also intended for the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux. One recommendation, aimed at countering the shortage of apartments in Nunavik, is made to the Société d’habitation du Québec.