Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Education

Jan 14, 2025

In a step toward fostering education and supporting Indigenous youth, the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) has committed $50,000 to the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO). This generous contribution underscores a shared dedication to empowering Indigenous youth and advancing innovative solutions to global health challenges.

Advancing One Health with Indigenous Youth at the Forefront

At the heart of this partnership is the "VIDO and SIGA One Health Fellowship for Aspiring Indigenous Students". The fellowship, designed to inspire and support Saskatchewan Indigenous students, aims to prepare the next generation of scientists, researchers, and health professionals. By integrating financial support, work placements, and mentorship opportunities, the initiative will equip participants with the tools to pursue careers in One Health—a multidisciplinary approach recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Empowering Indigenous Students

The $50,000 fellowship covers a portion of tuition for diploma or degree programs, summer programs, and internships. This comprehensive approach enables students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, working alongside VIDO’s scientific team in state-of-the-art facilities.

VIDO and SIGA share a vision of empowering Indigenous youth to become leaders in addressing complex health challenges affecting their communities and beyond. This program not only offers educational opportunities but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging in scientific disciplines that are critical to the health and well-being of people and animals in Saskatchewan and around the world.

A Shared Commitment to Reconciliation

The partnership aligns with University of Saskatchewan’s broader commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Specifically, it supports Indigenous representation in scientific fields, addressing systemic gaps in education, training, and employment.

VIDO’s ongoing contributions to Indigenous communities include vaccine research targeting diseases disproportionately affecting Indigenous populations, outreach programs promoting vaccine education, and participation in initiatives like the Saskatchewan Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research (NEIHR). Together with SIGA, VIDO is taking another meaningful step toward building a future grounded in equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Looking Ahead: A Healthier, More Inclusive Future

Today’s cheque presentation, attended by representatives from SIGA and VIDO, marked the beginning of this collaboration. The symbolic gesture reflects more than financial support—it celebrates shared values and a mutual commitment to creating opportunities for Indigenous youth.

“Through this fellowship, we are investing in the future leaders of our province and addressing critical gaps in health and education,” said Patricia Cook, SIGA VP Corporate Affairs. “Together with VIDO, we are building a foundation for a healthier, more equitable future.”

Dr. Volker Gerdts, director and CEO of VIDO, echoed these sentiments: “This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration. SIGA’s support will enable us to inspire and equip Indigenous youth to make meaningful contributions to science and health.”

The "VIDO and SIGA One Health Fellowship for Aspiring Indigenous Students" is a step toward a future where Indigenous voices and perspectives are central to global health solutions.

About SIGA
SIGA operates seven casinos and the online gaming site PlayNow.com in Saskatchewan. 100% of our net proceeds are reinvested back into the province. Casinos include Dakota Dunes Resort & Casino on Whitecap Dakota First Nation near Saskatoon, the Northern Lights Casino on the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation in Prince Albert, Gold Eagle Casino on the Mosquito First Nation in North Battleford, Living Sky Casino on the Nekaneet First Nation in Swift Current, the Painted Hand Casino on the Kahkewistahaw First Nation in Yorkton, the Bear Claw Casino on the White Bear First Nation near Carlyle and Gold Horse Casino on Little Pine Cree Nation in Lloydminster. To learn more visit SIGA.CA.