International Spotlight on Adult Education and Literacy

TORONTO , Nov. 30 /CNW/ - On December 1, 2009 , Canada will take part in UNESCO's Sixth International Conference on Adult Education (CONFINTEA VI) in Belém, Brazil .

Representatives from UNESCO member states, UN agencies, research institutions, organizations representing various sectors of society, the private sector, as well as learners from all over the world, will come together to engage in global-level policy dialogue on adult education. The theme of CONFINTEA VI, "Living and Learning for a Viable Future: The Power of Adult Learning," aims to create commitment to and action on adult learning and education, one of the four pillars of lifelong learning outlined in Learn Canada 2020.

Over four days, participants will engage in five ministerial round tables focusing on key issues in adult learning, education, and literacy, 32 workshops highlighting achievements and innovations in adult learning and practice, and an exhibition where member states, nongovernmental organizations, UN agencies, and the private sector will showcase concrete experiences and effective practices.

The Canadian delegation, headed by the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), and including representation from ministries of education, the federal government, and civil society, will inform discussions and contribute to shaping the global dialogue on adult education and learning. The conference is expected to result in the adoption of the Belém Framework for Action.

For more information, please visit UNESCO's CONFINTEA VI Web site: http://www.unesco.org/en/confinteavi/.

CMEC is an intergovernmental body composed of the ministers responsible for elementary-secondary and advanced education from the provinces and territories. Through CMEC, ministers share information and undertake projects in areas of mutual interest and concern.

For further information: Katerina Sukovski, Coordinator, Literacy, Tel.: [phone], ext. 228, E-mail: [email protected]