Government of Canada launches fourth cohort of Inuit Learning and Development Program in Nunavut

The Government of Canada recently made another important step forward in building towards a representative public service in Nunavut with the launch of the fourth cohort of the Inuit Learning and Development Program (ILDP). Led by Pilimmaksaivik (Federal Centre of Excellence for Inuit Employment in Nunavut), the ILDP is a job training initiative aimed at providing Inuit with opportunities to build the essential skills, knowledge and confidence for government employment.

This 16 month program, which consists of four work placements lasting four months each, offers pre-employment training to support the Government of Canada’s responsibilities under Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement (“Inuit Employment”). This article requires both the Government of Canada and the Government of Nunavut to work towards increasing Inuit participation within Nunavut’s public sector to a representative rate at all levels. Inuit employment in Nunavut’s public sector is central to building prosperity for Inuit and is a vital part of Canada’s obligations under the Nunavut Agreement and commitments to reconciliation.

This latest ILDP cohort consists of 10 participants from a total of five communities across Nunavut. Applications were received in fall 2021 and placements began the week of March 28 following one week of onboarding. The program leverages best practices recommended in the Nunavut Inuit Labour Force Analysis and the Nunavut Government Employee Survey, including meaningful incorporation of Inuit cultures and languages. A total of 10 federal departments and agencies in Nunavut are offering placements during this cohort.

This initiative represents the Government of Canada’s broader commitment to embracing a renewed, nation-to-nation, government-to-government, and Inuit-Crown relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership as the foundation for transformative change.