9 million Canadians have low literacy and essential skills. 6.7 million are in labour market. These workers do not have the level of skills needed to function effectively in the knowledge economy.
Indicators of Well-being in Canada
Learning contributes to the social and economic well-being of individuals and of the countries in which they live. Education and training provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to participate effectively in society and the economy. Participation in education and training can offer personal pleasure and pride in one’s accomplishments, and open the door to new opportunities that can improve one’s standard of living.
Post-secondary education, life-long learning, and opportunities such as job-related training enable Canadians to acquire knowledge and skills that ultimately contribute to a high quality of life in Canada.
Conference Board of Canada – Statistics on adult literacy
Conference Board of Canada – What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You: Literacy’s Impact on Workplace Health and Safety (pdf file 1.2 MB)
Literacy Performance on 2003 Adult Literacy Skills Survey
International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS) Results
FINAL CONFINTEA VI
Report for Canada October 2008
The Development and State of the Art of Adult Learning and Education (ALE)
