National Adult Literacy Database

Aboriginal peoples are gaining ground in Canada's population, but they are losing their languages. And their family structure is dramatically different than other Canadian families, with less than half of children living with both their parents. The rest are in single-parent homes, living with relatives or step-parents, or in foster homes. Indeed, half the foster children in Canada under the age of 14 are aboriginal, according to the National Household Survey.

A highly qualified and mobile skilled trades workforce is critical to Canada's productivity and competitiveness. By helping Canadians connect with available jobs and putting a priority on skills and training, we are ensuring continued economic growth, job creation and long-term prosperity.

The following strategic orientations emerged at the summit as key to helping Canada regain its leading edge in a competitive economy: addressing development of literacy and essential skills as a national priority; raising the quality of practice; and integrating ES assessment and upskilling in college technical programs.

"I feel honoured and grateful to have worked with the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Literacy Network Inc. since 2005. After much consideration, the time has come for me to step down and pass on the leadership of this worthy organization. I would like to thank the many colleagues I have met over the years for your support and challenges." -- Carol Vandale, Executive Director

Beginning in January 2014, the GED® test will move from a paper-based to a computer-based format, which simply means that you will complete the test using a computer and not on paper. The test content will remain the same – five tests: Language Arts, Reading; Language Arts, Writing; Social Studies; Science; and Math.

Overly restrictive and “antiquated” provincial regulations are contributing to a shortage of young apprentices and starving the economy of badly needed skilled workers, according to a C.D. Howe Institute study.