Nunavut sees new crop of teachers, nurses as students graduate from college

It took nearly eight years, but Randy Qatalik can finally call himself a teacher.

Last Thursday, about 50 people attended the graduation ceremony to celebrate Qatalik and a dozen other graduates from Nunavut Arctic College's teacher education, pre-nursing, nursingand computer sciences programs.

"I feel really proud of myself because it's only a four-year program, but I've taken a long time to finish it and I've worked really hard for it, so it feels great," said Qatalik.

In the time it took him to finish the program, he dealt with the passing of his father a teacher as well and got married.

"It's been a really up-and-down ride all the way," he said.

While teachers are in high demand, Qatalik is encouraging any Nunavummiut that are considering going to college.

"We can use more Inuit workers in Nunavut, and I'm sure you can be a really great help," he said.

Serving Nunavummiut

Mandy Tatty is another Nunavut Arctic College graduate. Originally from Rankin Inlet, she completed the four-year nursing program.

"I had a lot of support from my family and my classmates and also my instructors, pushing me to not give up and to keep going, knowing that in the end it's going to be worth it, and it is," she said.

Now, she wants to return to her community to work in the health centre.

"It's a good feeling to be done school and being able to serve Nunavummiut."