The Learning Hub and the College of New Caledonia (CNC) are pleased to announce the restoration of funding for their Literacy Coordinator position for 2012.
This position complements the existing English as a Second Language and Community Adult Learning Programs delivered by CNC out of the Learning Hub.
Individuals considering entering or reentering the workforce; or are interested in assessing their current skills or upgrading those skills, or those wishing to explore careers they may be suitable for, are invited to contact the Learning Hub staff for assistance.
Similarly, employers looking for assistance in upgrading the skills of their employees or parents of children looking to get their kids a head start are also encouraged to contact the Learning Hub.
Numerous resources are available including assessments and skills upgrading all of which are free.
There can no longer be any dispute.
Another survey has confirmed that improved literacy provides social, political, cultural and economic benefits.
Socially, improved literacy contributes to maintaining good health and living longer; raising healthier and better educated children; empowering women to address issues of gender equality; assisting new Canadians to achieve ethnic equality, and raising individual self-esteem and confidence.
Culturally, literacy facilitates the transmission of community values, traditions and behaviours, and improves people’s ability to participate in their own culture.
With respect to First Nations peoples, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has interpreted the human rights elements of literacy as preserving cultural diversity through its four pillars of learning: learning to be (the right to self-definition and self-identification); learning to know (the right to self-knowledge); learning to do (the right to self-development); and learning to live together (the right to self-determination).
Politically, increased literacy leads to higher rates of political participation and improves the quality of discussions around public policies and democracy.
Economically, literacy has been consistently shown to be a major determinant of individual income.
On a national level, a one per cent increase in literacy translates into a two per cent increase in productivity.
For further information or to access services please call Alex, Kathy or Joanne at the Learning Hub 250-996-7078.
The Caledonia Courier is a partner of the Learning Hub.