On August 22, a transformative initiative rolled into Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation and the first cohort of students stepped into a classroom-on-wheels. Their first day of Health Care Aide training in Roseau River marked a trailblazing opportunity for healthcare education delivery in the province - a program born from months of collaboration, vision, and dedication.
It began as a conversation in February 2024 when Roseau River met with RRC Polytech to explore ways of expanding educational opportunities within the community. The Health Care Aide training program was chosen as the first initiative to develop and deliver in Roseau River because of its direct, practical benefits for the community.
Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation pursues initiative with RRC Polytech that will change healthcare education delivery across the province
The Mobile Training Lab was the solution that fit: a 950-square foot classroom on wheels that offers experiential learning that can be assembled right in community, complete with the same cutting-edge equipment found in on-campus labs in Winnipeg.
RRC Polytech's Mobile Training Lab will be the hub for learning over the next six months. These state-of-the-art facilities bring hands-on learning directly to students - making post-secondary education accessible for students across Manitoba. Corporate Solutions worked with Facilities to deploy the labs and ensure that they run safely and efficiently.
"Offering the program right here in our community has been a huge benefit for students, particularly for those who don't have reliable transportation. The community, along with Chief and Council, has been really supportive every step of the way. We're excited to see this vision come to life with RRC Polytech, and we're looking forward to expanding our offerings for even more programs here in the future," said Skyla Sellner, Post-Secondary Coordinator for Roseau River.
Delivering education in-community creates new, effective pathways for learners to build meaningful careers in healthcare. Students can actively participate in innovation that directly contributes to the economic and social wellbeing of their communities without having to leave their homes for urban centres.
Health Care Aide student Stacey Patrick says that she was initially nervous to enter the program but the welcoming atmosphere made her feel right at home.
"I genuinely look forward to coming to class and learning something new every - it's definitely a great opportunity that everyone should take advantage of. This program is the first of its kind, and we get to be part of history in the making," said Patrick.
The Health Care Aide program enables students to develop the skills and knowledge to succeed as healthcare workers, helping others live with dignity and independence. Graduates working in health settings may assist hospital patients, personal care home residents or home care clients with their daily activities and physical, emotional, and social needs.
The federal Post-Secondary Partnership Program funded the program with support from Roseau River First Nation, RRC Polytech Corporate Solutions, and the School of Continuing and Distance Education.
