IHRDP aims to develop a cadre of
researchers, community organizations, policy-makers and community
members interested in Indigenous health in Ontario. Our program
recognizes the diversity of Indigenous cultures and peoples in Ontario,
both on and off reserve. We are interested in fostering the development
of Inuit, Métis, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students in Ontario who
are engaged in Aboriginal research.
The Indigenous
Health Research Development Program (IHRDP) was established in April
2003 and is a jointly awarded project between McMaster University in
Hamilton and the University of Toronto. Together, the two universities
will play a lead role in funding student research initiatives in
Aboriginal communities in Ontario.
The IHRDP is one of eight Aboriginal Capacity And
Development Research Environments (ACADRE) centres in Canada. The
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has committed $12 million
to fund ACADRE centre projects that assist Aboriginal communities to
focus on causes of Aboriginal health problems.
The Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples reported
a significant gap between the health of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal
peoples in Canada. While Aboriginal peoples make up only three per cent
of Canada's population, they account for the highest rate of suicide of
any group in the world, severe diabetes and chronic health conditions
and they account for more accidental deaths in the country than any
other group of people.
By taking a student-centred approach to research
and by focusing resources on funding research projects into these
health-related issues, (click here to apply for research funding) the
Indigenous Health Research Development Program is determined to assist
with building a career structure for students in Aboriginal health while
at the same time, assisting communities to combat health issues that
plague numerous Aboriginal communities in
Canada.
