BC expands adult literacy programs offering free courses and financial assistance

Expansion of BC’s Community Adult Literacy Programs

Introduction

For those hoping to continue their education or upgrade, this is for you!

Expansion of BC’s Community Adult Literacy Programs

The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills has announced an expansion in BC’s Community Adult Literacy Programs (CALP) for more accessible and affordable education.

The province announced they will now invest $3.4 million in CALP compared to their allocated $2.9 million in 2021/2022—which means 102 adult literacy programs will be delivered by 71 providers in 132 communities, supporting more than 16,000 people in the province!

Importance of Literacy Skills

“Improving literacy and numeracy skills is a large step forward that has a massive impact on people’s quality of life, improving job and career prospects and thriving in B.C.’s robust and strong economy,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

“This investment will connect people with the skills they need to take the next step in their educational and career journey.”

Program Details

According to the province, CALP aims to help British Columbians, newcomers, work permit holders and refugee claimants improve their reading, writing, math and digital skills with programming that includes one-on-one tutoring and small-group instruction.

There’s programming offered by both school districts as well as post-secondary institutions across the province.

Tuition-Free Options

If cost is a barrier, many public post-secondary institutions (colleges and universities) offer tuition-free adult upgrading courses, particularly under program names such as Adult Basic Education, Access Programs or Academic Upgrading.

There are also multiple grants, scholarships, and other financial assistance available to adults and you can check your eligibility here.

Additionally, the Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English Language Learning programs for domestic students are tuition-free—with courses being offered at 18 public post-secondary institutions in British Columbia.

The institutions on Vancouver Island include Camosun College, Vancouver Island University, and North Island College—check out the full list of institutions here!

Testimonials

“Empowering people to take charge of their learning better prepares them to acquire the skills needed in today’s changing world,” said Desneiges Profili, executive director, Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL).

“With thousands of learners walking through CBAL doors every year, CALP funding is essential to ensure community members get the support they need to not just survive, but thrive.”

Conclusion

Visit their website to figure out which Adult Education program will suit your needs—factors such as cost, length, and instruction delivery will depend on the district or post-secondary institution of your choice.

Happy learning!

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • Target 4.6: By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy.
   • Indicator 4.6.1: Proportion of population in a given age group achieving at least a fixed level of proficiency in functional (a) literacy and (b) numeracy skills, by sex.

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.6: By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.
   • Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth (aged 15-24 years) not in education, employment or training.

Analysis

The article addresses the issue of adult literacy and education programs in British Columbia. Based on the content of the article, the following SDGs, targets, and indicators can be identified:

1. SDG 4: Quality Education

The expansion of BC’s Community Adult Literacy Programs (CALP) aims to improve literacy and numeracy skills among adults. This aligns with SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

Targets:

• Target 4.6: By 2030, ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy.

Indicators:

• Indicator 4.6.1: Proportion of population in a given age group achieving at least a fixed level of proficiency in functional (a) literacy and (b) numeracy skills, by sex.

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The investment in CALP programs aims to improve job and career prospects for individuals, contributing to SDG 8, which focuses on promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

Targets:

• Target 8.6: By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.

Indicators:

• Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth (aged 15-24 years) not in education, employment or training.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: victoriabuzz.com

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