Communities throughout the lower mainland will benefit from one-time targeted funding of $52,166 for Kwantlen Polytechnic University to support adult-literacy programs.

Trained volunteers teach the adult-literacy programs, offering one-to-one tutoring or small group classes. Each program is tailored to suit the needs of adults with low reading, writing and/or math skills.

Local community organizations deliver the programs in partnership with public post-secondary institutions in their regions. The partnerships encourage the transition of adult learners from community adult-literacy programs into post-secondary studies and employment training.

Provincial funding for community adult-literacy programs is distributed to not-for-profit community groups to offer free training that is easily accessible in local places such as schools, Aboriginal friendship centres and community centres. In 2016-17, 91 grants will be funded, supporting 9,000 adult learners in B.C.

The funding for Kwantlen Polytechnic University is part of $2.4 million announced today toward community adult-literacy programs that will help adults in 85 communities throughout B.C. improve their reading and math skills.

Since 2001, the Province has invested more than $27 million in community adult-literacy programs, helping approximately 109,000 adults improve their reading, writing and math skills.

Quotes:

Peter Fassbender, Surrey-Fleetwood MLA –

“Without adequate literacy skills, older individuals face tremendous hurdles to enter the job market. This funding represents an on-going commitment on behalf of the provincial government to ensure that British Columbians of all ages have the opportunity to secure rewarding employment.”

Teresa Wat, Richmond Centre MLA –

“Newcomers to the province need access to education and training opportunities that will help them integrate into our growing economy, and the funding announced today will be a great assistance.”

Mary Polak, Langley MLA –

“Education is the keystone to any great society. By kick starting our adult education programs with an investment of $2.4 million dollars, we are setting British Columbians up for success. Today, 9,000 people in 85 communities across British Columbia are one step closer to getting the boost to education that they need.” 

Stephanie Cadieux, Surrey-Cloverdale MLA –

“In today’s economy, adult learners need to strive towards attaining basic literacy skills. By providing funding to our adult literacy programs, we are providing opportunities and the skills that British Columbians need to establish themselves in the job market.”

Learn More:

To find out more about community adult-literacy programs please visit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/adult-education/adult-upgrading