Applications for the 2023 Student Bursary are now open.
Established in 2011, the FNIGC Student Bursary is awarded each year to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty.
Since it was established, the FNIGC Student Bursary has awarded grants of up to $2,500 and free registration to The Fundamentals of OCAP® course to numerous outstanding students. As part of the 25th Anniversary of OCAP®, FNIGC has launched an updated Fundamentals of OCAP® online course. This unique online learning opportunity introduces the First Nations principles of OCAP® – ownership, control, access, and possession of First Nations data by First Nations. Working with First Nations thought leaders and artists, subject matter experts, and online education professionals, FNIGC is proud to offer this online course that explores First Nations self-determination, self-governance, and collective rights to data sovereignty through the framework of OCAP®.
Applicants who meet the mandatory criteria will have their essay reviewed and rated by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors.
All students applying to the Student Bursary must provide the following information to be eligible for FNIGC’s Student Bursary:
- Evidence of First Nations status (such as a copy of a status card or membership affirmation),
- Evidence of student status (such as a letter of acceptance or a transcript of marks, etc.),
- Letter of reference (from an employer, professor, community member, etc.).
As part of the application process, students must also complete an essay (minimum 500 words) that addresses the following topic:
- The recent exponential growth of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has resulted in a number of new applications that threaten to upend the way humans interact and engage with technology. In light of this, how can The First Nations Principles of OCAP® be implemented in a way that ensures the responsible use of First Nations data and appropriate respect for First Nations data sovereignty given the realities and impact of AI?
Students who meet the mandatory criteria will have their essay reviewed and rated by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors, according to a rating scale and matrix that can be accessed in the link below.
2023 FNIGC Student Bursary – Essay Rating Matrix
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply for the bursary?
Any First Nations student pursuing a post-secondary degree in the fields of health, social sciences, or applied sciences, or studying issues related to First Nations data sovereignty. Proof of First Nations status will be required.
- What is the application deadline?
The application Deadline for the 2023 FNIGC Student Bursary is Friday, December 15th at 4:00pm EST.
- What is the process?
Eligible First Nations students must complete the online application form and submit a 500-word essay that addresses the topic noted above.
All fields on the application form must be completed, including any attachments. These can be uploaded in the application form linked below.
Click here to be taken to the FNIGC Student Bursary application form
- When will the winners be announced?
Bursary winners will be announced in early April 2024 and posted on FNIGC’s website.
By applying, the winner consents to the use of their name and address (City/First Nation only) and photograph in any related FNIGC publicity. Applications are subject to verification for eligibility.
If you have any questions or issues with completing the application process, please reach out to [email protected]