Adult learners in Merritt will benefit from one-time targeted funding of $24,000 for the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology to support literacy programs.

Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart made the announcement on behalf of Advanced Education Minister Andrew Wilkinson.

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 the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology 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.

Quote:

Jackie Tegart, Fraser-Nicola MLA –

“As someone who has been involved in education all of my life, I know many adults throughout the region will benefit from this opportunity to improve their skill set. This funding represents the provincial government’s on-going commitment to increase access to education that will help older individuals succeed 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