News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

May 5, 2021

Province Provides More Than $20 Million Toward Adult Education



The Manitoba government is providing more than $20 million in operating grants toward Manitoba Adult Learning Centres and Adult Literacy Programs, including a one-time COVID-19 relief grant, Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Wayne Ewasko announced today.

“Adult education continues to be a priority for our government. We are committed to ensuring Manitobans have the right skills, including reading, writing, numeracy and essential skills, as well as access to obtaining their high school credentials,” said Ewasko. “We are proud to champion this goal in the new Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy.”

The Adult Learning Centres program offers tuition-free high school credits and upgrading courses, which may lead to a Manitoba high school diploma. In 2021-22, 30 agencies will receive more than $17 million in operating grants, including an amalgamated MITT Adult Learning Centre, which will combine six separate Adult Learning Centres in one centre with multiple program sites.

The Manitoba Adult Literacy Program funds organizations to deliver programming that addresses the literacy needs of adult Manitobans. This year, 29 agencies will receive more than $2.5 million in operating grants including a one-time COVID-19 relief grant totalling $50,400 to support additional operating or capital expenditures that may have occurred related to COVID-19 program pressures.

“Today’s funding announcement allows us to continue to offer adult learning opportunities in rural Manitoba,” said Tannis Magnusson, education director for Sunrise Adult Learning Centres Program. “Oftentimes it is the only chance that some may get to upgrade their skills without encountering the barriers of attending training away from their home community. This funding also allows us to reach out to students across the province through our online programming option.”

“Protecting our adult education system will ensure adults can develop the skills needed to participate fully in the community and contribute to a growing economy,” said Ewasko. “With an investment in adult learning programming, we can ensure people in Manitoba have the right skills, talent and knowledge at the right time, to rebound from the effects of the pandemic and support economic resilience and growth.”

For more information on Manitoba’s Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy, visit:
www.gov.mb.ca/mbskills/index.html.

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