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SANIKILUAQ - The hamlet of Sanikiluaq put a new twist on an old favourite this summer by revamping the community's summer student program.

While the concept of hiring summer students isn't new, the hamlet decided some changes needed to be made to the program.

"I got rid of the summer student issue and brought in intern programming where we would recruit the same number, 10 students, and create partnerships with the businesses and the hamlet office to make use of the students and at the same time pay them well and create some accountability and responsibility," said Muhamud Hassan, acting senior administrative officer.

Hassan wouldn't disclose the exact amount students are paid, but said it was above Nunavut's minimum wage of $10/hr expected to come into effect later this year.

The eight-week internship began in the beginning of July and will run until Sept. 1.

Interns are rotated on a two-week schedule in four sectors: the airport, the hamlet office, public works such as the community's water delivery service and recreation.

Students from Nuiyak school were recruited for the program, but there were some conditions. They had to be over 15 years old and they had to sign a contract.

"We signed a contract that they'll be on time, they'll do what their supervisor will ask them," Hussan said. "And on my side, I make sure they get paid on time and I'm somebody who is going to be an ear for them."

He said he made it clear to the interns they can come to him with any problems they may be having at home or at the workplace.

The success of the internship program can be measured by the students' enthusiasm, Hassan said.

"They've always been on time," he said. "We start at 8:30 and they're done at 5. Someone might be gone if they're unwell, but we've had all attendance almost 100 per cent apart from one girl who had to go for surgery."

The goal of the program is to familiarize students with the operation of the community, as well as to expose them to possible career options when the students finish high school.

"By the time the eight weeks are done I hope they'll be familiar with most of what we do and at the same time have been thinking, 'Is this something I would like to pursue when I'm done school?'" Hussan said.

Louisa Sala, a Grade 10/11 student in the internship program, said she has enjoyed her time working at the hamlet office.

"I've been doing purchase orders on the computer and phone calls," she said. "I like answering the phone and helping other people."

When asked if her time at the office will help her to choose her future career, she said, "Yes it will."

Hussan said he is planning on expanding the program next year to provide more opportunities for students and increase interest.

"What I want to do as an add-on next year is to try to bring in other businesses such as the Co-op, the Northern store and other aspects to partner with me so we have more students and they have more places to work," he said.