Released on March 26, 2012
March 24 to April 1, 2012, has been named International Adult Learners Week (IALW). Celebrated in 40 countries around the world, IALW promotes public awareness of the importance of adult literacy and lifelong learning.
"The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes that adult literacy, adult basic education and lifelong learning are key to building the skilled workforce we need to meet our ongoing talent challenge," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. "International Adult Learners Week allows us to celebrate the education and employment opportunities available to adult learners so they are better prepared to participate in our labour market."
Saskatchewan's post-secondary system provides inclusive programming for adult learners to begin, continue, or upgrade academic studies and other training. In 2012-13, the Government of Saskatchewan is investing $21.4 million in Adult Basic Education initiatives, which will provide opportunities for approximately 7,600 Saskatchewan residents who return to the classroom to continue their academic studies and develop essential skills for employment and life. The 2012-13 budget also provides $29.2 million through the Provincial Training Allowance for living allowances and child care costs for adult learners in Adult Basic Education and short-term skills training programs.
IALW was officially launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2000 and has been celebrated in Canada since 2002.
The United Nations has declared 2003 to 2012 as the Literacy Decade, the goals of which are to help all learners learn to read, write, calculate and think critically; assist learners in acquiring other basic skills; and improving their quality of life through literacy.
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For more information, contact:
Marieka Andrew
Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3170