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Unlocking the door to better literacy

Tuesday, 7 September 2010

An upsurge in the number of Northern Ireland’s literacy learners has been welcomed by Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey.

Figures show that during July 2010, 2,016 learners gained literacy qualifications through the Department’s free Essential Skills provision - a significant increase on the same period in previous years.

Welcoming the news, the Minister said: “I am greatly encouraged by these figures. They are proof that people are determined to achieve their full potential – both in the workplace and in their personal lives - by gaining and updating their qualifications in literacy, numeracy and ICT. These skills underpin all our learning up to the highest levels and are central to our future economic competitiveness.”

The Minister was speaking ahead of International Literacy Day on 8 September, which coincides with the Department’s drive to encourage more adults to sign up for free Essential Skills classes. Since the launch of the Strategy in 2002, almost 72,000 learners have gained qualifications in literacy, numeracy and ICT.

The Minister continued: “Whilst today’s news is hugely promising, we must be mindful not to rest on our laurels. My commitment to free Essential Skills classes underlines the importance upon which I place this issue and means that no one in our society should be left behind in the continuous drive to improve our skills base, both individually and collectively. Our future economic well-being is dependent upon it.”

If you would like to improve any of your Essential Skills for free, why not visit your local College or visit the Knowhow pages on NI Direct

For further information on free classes in your area, contact the Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Advisers at your local Careers Resource Centre, JobCentre or Jobs and Benefits office. Alternatively, logon to the Careers Service website

or visit the employment section on NI Direct.

Notes to editors:

  1. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7492. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.