Heritage rivers reflect the deep cultural connections between waterways, landscapes, wildlife and the people who have lived, travelled and thrived along them for generations.
Premier R.J. Simpson today announced the appointment of Ms. Shannon Barnett-Aikman as the Deputy Minister of Education, Culture and Employment for the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), effective October 1, 2026.
Ms. Barnett-Aikman brings to the role more than two decades of experience in education, public service and organizational leadership in the Northwest Territories and internationally. She most recently served as Assistant Deputy Minister with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment.
Work to remediate fountains and sinks at Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ Elementary School and Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ Regional High School, Fort Simpson; Mackenzie Mountain School, Norman Wells; Fort Simpson Student Residences, Fort Simpson; Echo Dene School, Fort Liard; Mezi School, Whatì, are complete. The Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) has lifted the Health Orders previously in place for these schools, following confirmation that lead levels in drinking water are within Health Canada guidelines.
The final 2026 Expression of Interest draw for the Northwest Territories Nominee Program’s Employer Driven Stream is scheduled for September 25, 2026. To be considered, applicants must submit their expression of interest profile by September 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. MT. Approximately 100 profiles will be drawn.
The new Expression of Interest system was launched earlier this year, with the first three draws occurring on March 25, June 25, and August 26, 2026. For these draws, the 248 top-ranking profiles were selected, including:
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is seeking public feedback on proposed amendments to the Income Assistance Regulations and Income Assistance for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Regulations under the Social Assistance Act.
The proposed amendments are intended to improve clarity and consistency in program delivery, address gaps and ensure that benefits are aligned with program objectives.
The Department of Education, Culture and Employment’s (ECE) regional service centre hours will change starting Monday, September 14, 2026. Offices will be open to the public Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Caitlin Cleveland announced a new funding program today to help communities prepare residents for employment opportunities associated with upcoming major projects across the Northwest Territories.
The NWT Workforce Ready Program will provide grant funding to Indigenous, community and municipal governments to design and deliver skills development opportunities that respond to local workforce needs and anticipated employment opportunities.
Northwest Territories residents can now find career, skills and business supports all in one place, making it easier to find what they need to get ready for the jobs and opportunities of tomorrow.
A new centralized webpage brings together programs, services and supports offered by the Government of the Northwest Territories for:
Work to remediate fountains and sinks at Joseph Burr Tyrell School, Fort Smith; Paul W Kaeser High School, Fort Smith; École St. Joseph School, Yellowknife; Kaw Tay Whee School, Dettah and Chief Albert Wright School, Tulita are complete. The Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) has lifted the Health Orders previously in place for these schools, following confirmation that lead levels in drinking water are within Health Canada guidelines.
