At the end of the year, Vale, in partnership with the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation (NAAF), launched an educational program for aboriginal students in Canada. The aim is to stimulate and inspire the students to work in the mining industry.
A survey conducted by Statistics Canada found that one quarter of young aborigines drop out of high school, reducing their chance of entering the job market and underlining the need for programs of this kind. We will contribute to developing the mining education program, including research, design, production of DVDs and distribution of resumes.
The partnership between Vale and the foundation is invaluable. By demonstrating functional models and providing information about the area, young people learn what the industry has to offer.