Yukon chiefs have approved a memorandum of understanding on education with the federal and territorial governments at a leadership meeting in Whitehorse.

Kluane Adamek, education technician for the Council of Yukon First Nations, said it commits the three sides to talking about bringing First Nation students to the same level of achievement as other students.

"I'm feeling quite optimistic about this process, but maybe there'll be some struggles, maybe there'll be some challenges with the implementation of the action plan,” she said. “We're not sure. But it's important that we take a first step."

Teslin chief Peter Johnston, who oversees education issues for the council, said it's an important first step to address education shortcomings.

“In our own way of thinking, that's the only way we're going to get our success is by being involved and having that voice and that opportunity to bring our issues forward," he said.

While education is a territorial responsibility, Johnston says it's important Ottawa is involved for funding reasons.

"Because, like I said, it comes with a huge, not only commitment, but the resources that are needed to fill that void."

Adamek said the memorandum now goes to Ottawa and the Yukon government for approval. The memorandum must be approved by the other levels of government before discussions on those issues begin.