By Jessica Anstice
Adult learners in Pakenham are set to benefit from the launch of a ministerial statement that invests in more targeted courses to reduce adult illiteracy and innumeracy, making it easier for residents to get jobs.
Training and Skills and Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney officially launched the statement on The Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020–25 at Parliament House.
Living and Learning Pakenham and Pakenham Outlook will play a key role in delivering on the statement’s objectives by giving local adult learners the literacy, numeracy, employability, digital and entry-level vocational skills they need to get back into education and training.
They will all ensure people living in Pakenham and surround have access to ongoing education and training opportunities that increase their chances of success, their confidence and their feeling of self-worth for their contributions to their communities.
“Living and Learning Pakenham and Pakenham Outlook help adult learners gain invaluable life skills that make a big difference in their daily lives,” Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said.
“These skills will empower them to get back into education and training and participate fully in their local community.”
New training for teachers in the adult community education will be introduced so they have the skills and expertise to address the rate of illiteracy and innumeracy.
Local employers will also work with adult community education providers to make it easier for students to get jobs when they finish their course.
“Illiteracy and innumeracy create significant barriers in a person’s life,” Training and Skills Education Minister Gayle Tierney said.
“These new courses will make it easier for people to fulfil their ambitions – in life and in their career.”
