Released on September 8, 2015
In recognition of International Literacy Day, Education Minister Don Morgan has proclaimed September 8, 2015, as Literacy Day in Saskatchewan.
“In order for Saskatchewan to be the best place in Canada to live, work and build a life, we must work to improve literacy rates amongst our citizens,” Morgan said. “By investing annually in literacy programs, our government is taking steps to see more of our citizens participate fully in our economy and enjoy the quality of life that our province has to offer.”
In 2015-16, the Government of Saskatchewan allocated more than $2.4 million to fund literacy programs benefiting adults, children and families including:
- adult literacy programs at regional colleges, post-secondary institutions, the Regina Public Library and community-based organizations throughout the province;
- family literacy programs and services through the Family Literacy Initiative Program;
- short-term projects provided by community organizations that improve adult, workplace or family literacy through the Saskatchewan Community Literacy Fund; and
- summer literacy camps in eight school divisions. The Government of Saskatchewan also provided funding for summer literacy camps on Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation and Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.
The Saskatchewan Literacy Network, which receives annual government funding through the Family Literacy Initiative Program, has been offering support, professional development and resources to family literacy practitioners in the province since 1989.
“Literacy is all around us,” Saskatchewan Literacy Network Executive Director Karen Danielson said. "Acknowledging the support of the provincial government, we are fortunate to have a field of dedicated literacy practitioners who are working to improve literacy rates across Saskatchewan. This work is essential to developing sustainable societies as literacy is about how we learn, grow and navigate the world around us."
International Literacy Day was first proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966 to promote international awareness and support of improved literacy. The theme of International Literacy Day 2015 is Literacy and Sustainable Societies.
A complete list of literacy programs in Saskatchewan is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/live/education-learning/literacy-in-saskatchewan.
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For more information, contact:
Amanda Purcell
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: amanda.purcell@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506