Province Introduces Adult Learning Act

Improving the quality of life for Nova Scotians by increasing literacy and essential skills is the goal of the proposed Adult Learning Act tabled in the House of Assembly today, Dec. 2.

All learning programs, except adult learning, are covered by legislation in Nova Scotia. This new act will formalize the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning into law, providing governing and accountability measures that will ensure the continued quality and effectiveness of adult learning.

"Improving literacy and essential skills is key to making life better for Nova Scotians," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Workforce Development.

"Ensuring people have the skills and learning for good jobs is a key part of the jobsHere strategy and this legislation supports that. It will help reinforce a culture of lifelong learning in this province."

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning, an initiative of the Department of Labour and Workforce Development, co-ordinates all adult learning programs, policies and services in the province. It also administers the General Educational Development tests, (GED), an international high school equivalency testing program for adults.

In the fiscal year 2010-11, the government has allocated $9.8 million for adult learning programs. There are over 140 programs at 68 sites across the province. Programs are tuition-free, in English and French, and are offered in partnership with the Nova Scotia Community College, regional school boards, Université Sainte-Anne and community learning organizations. Last year, there were more than 4,500 enrolments in the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning.

In September the government released a discussion paper to get input from all Nova Scotians to develop the act. Meetings were also held with adult learning partners who work directly with the Labour and Workforce Development Department's adult education division. This input was key in developing this legislation. To view a summary of the responses to the discussion paper, visit www.gov.ns.ca/lwd .

"In addition to improving workforce productivity and employment opportunities, enhanced literacy skills also lead to a greater engagement in family, community and civic society, and a greater sense of confidence," said Ms. More.

Additional information on adult learning programs and services is available at www.gov.ns.ca/lwd .