Statement by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour to mark International Literacy Day

GATINEAU, QC, Sept. 8, 2017 /CNW/ - The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, issued the following statement today to mark International Literacy Day:

"Access to essential skills and literacy training create a foundation for lifelong learning and access to opportunity.

This year, the theme of International Literacy Day is "literacy in a digital world". Technology has changed, and continues to change, the way we live, work and learn.

As technology develops, so too must our literacy skills. People need access to the kinds of literacy skills that will enable them to navigate our increasingly digital world. That's why our government is helping Canadians enhance their digital literacy skills.

Literacy and essential skills are more than just reading and writing. They allow us to identify, understand, interpret, communicate, and use information. Improving literacy enriches people's lives and their communities. They are critical for people to succeed.

Let's all take this occasion, on International Literacy Day, to recognize those who work to improve literacy in Canada and around the world, and reflect on ways to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

Associated Link

Literacy and essential skills

Backgrounder

International Literacy Day

International Literacy Day is celebrated annually on September 8. This celebration was established in 1965 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to raise awareness about literacy and its importance in our daily lives.

Office of Literacy and Essential Skills

In 2007, the Government of Canada created the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES) to provide adult Canadians with the knowledge and skills they need to enter and succeed in the job market.

The Government of Canada has identified nine essential skills that are used in every job to varying degrees and at different levels of complexity: reading, writing, document use, numeracy, oral communication, working with others, thinking skills, digital skills and continuous learning.

Through the OLES, the Government works in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, employers and community organizations to provide Canadians with the resources they need to take advantage of job opportunities, contribute to their communities and share in the country's prosperity. The OLES provides funding through the Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program and the National Essential Skills Initiative.

SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

For media enquiries, please contact: Matt Pascuzzo, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, P.C., M.P., Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, 819-654-5611; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected], Follow us on Twitter