About the Ontario Bilateral Education and Learning Table (OBELT)
The Ontario Bilateral Education and Learning Table (OBELT) was established to create a dedicated space for discussions between First Nations in Ontario and Indigenous Services Canada on education and lifelong learning priority areas. OBELT aims to advance holistic, community-driven approaches to education that respect First Nations’ jurisdiction, priorities, and needs.
Background
In November 2020, the Chiefs of Ontario (COO) withdrew Ontario’s participation from the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Chiefs Committee on Education (CCOE) and the AFN National Indian Education Council (NIEC). This decision stemmed from concerns over the lack of consideration for the specific funding needs of First Nations in Ontario and a flawed decision-making process at the national level.
Following this withdrawal, in February 2021, COO Resolution 21/07 mandated the Chiefs and Technical Committee on Language and Learning (CTCLL) to develop recommendations for a bilateral education process with ISC that supports holistic lifelong learning approaches. This led to the establishment of OBELT as a platform for direct engagement between Ontario First Nations and ISC.
Terms of Reference and Key Resolutions
- Link to ToR (to be added once approved)
- February 2021: Resolution 21/07 initiated the development of a bilateral education process.
- November 2023: Resolution 23/15S approved the proposed approach for OBELT.
- February 2024: Resolution 24-07A confirmed the continuation of COO’s withdrawal from AFN Committees on Education, reinforcing the commitment to the bilateral process through OBELT.
Structure and Operations
OBELT consists of representatives from the Chiefs and Technical Committee on Language and Learning (CTCLL), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) Ontario region, and ISC Headquarters.
The representatives meet monthly to discuss and advance federal education policies, programs, funding, and initiatives that support First Nations education in Ontario.
OBELT remains committed to ensuring that First Nations in Ontario have a strong, unified voice in shaping education policies and funding structures. Through ongoing engagement and advocacy, the table continues to work towards meaningful, systemic change that upholds First Nations’ rights and self-determined educational approaches. Currently there are six priority areas.