(AUDIO and PHOTOS) A busy visit to North Bay for Governor General David Johnston

Education was a key focus for Governor General David Johnston‘s remarks at Nipissing University Thursday morning.

It was one of numerous stops in North Bay for His Excellency.

He delivered the opening and closing remarks for a panel discussion on Aboriginal reconciliation and education.

Johnston is one of a number of honourary witnesses to the Truth and Reconciliation process.

He says he’s heard survivors bravely share the devastating impact of residential schools on their lives, families and communities.

But, that’s not all.

Prior to the panel discussion, Johnston read a few lines of a poem written by North Bay’s Robin Chokomolin, calling it a beautiful vision to guide the discussion.

Meantime, the gym at Heritage French Public School in North Bay was packed on Thursday afternoon with the Governor General in attendance.

His Excellency learned about the anti-bullying initiatives at Heritage and Odyssee, across the street.

The Governor General says the students understand that bullying is not inclusive.

He says it is not who we are as Canadians.

Johnston also met with regional mayors at city hall.

He also attended a dinner hosted by the city and awarded local recipients of the Caring Canadian award.

Among the numerous stops, the Governor General’s visit started at 22 Wing CFB North Bay, which included a tour of the local NORAD operations.

Meantime, the Governor General’s wife Sharon Johnston visited the North Bay Indian Friendship Centre, the North Bay Regional Health Centre and One Kids Place along with the Military Family Resource Centre (pictured below).