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Recognizing effort and dedication
Three adult learners receive awards in Rankin Inlet

Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Published Wednesday, May 28, 2014

RANKIN INLET
Three adult learners were presented with Northern Territories Federation of Labour Learner's Awards in Rankin Inlet earlier this month.

NNSL photo/graphic

An emotional Alexandria Arualak accepts her Northern Territories Federation of Labour Learner's Award from Kivalliq regional federation vice president and coordinator of community programs Maureen Doherty, left, and adult educator Angie Kubluitok, right, during Nunavut Arctic College's Kivalliq campus award ceremonies in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

John Paul Ayaruak, Alexandria Arualak and Rebecca Niviatsiak received the awards for their work in adult basic education and essential skills.

The presentations were made during the Kivalliq campus of Nunavut Arctic College's graduation ceremonies earlier this month.

Regional federation vicepresident and college coordinator of community programs Maureen Doherty said this marked the second year Learner's Awards were presented in Rankin, following two awarded in 2013.

She said both recipients of the first two Learner's Awards graduated from Arctic College's programs this year, with Uviluq Naukatsik earning a certificate in office administration and Simon Kolit in trades access.

"It's great to see that continuity, and to know the students took their studies to the next level," said Doherty.

"In addition to the three awarded in Rankin this year, we had two recipients in Arviat and Baker Lake, and one each in Coral Harbour and Chesterfield Inlet."

Doherty said the awards acknowledge the students' dedication and exceptional effort to their studies, as well as the sacrifices that often accompany an adult's return to school.

She said this year's recipients were surprised and a little overwhelmed by the news they were award winners.

"You saw a really emotional response during the presentation, because these students persevered despite facing challenges that could have easily prompted them to leave the program.

"They really hung-in there, and I love having the opportunity to acknowledge those who have just begun their journey in starting back to school.

"They received a small monetary award, but the true significance is in being recognized.

"Adult basic education students sometimes meet the most challenges in returning to school.

"Whether it leads to further education or employment, or it just enhances their life in some way, I really give them credit for sticking it out."

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