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“Adult Learners’ Week promotes the benefits of learning – in the home, at work and in the community – and highlights the many options available for Islanders,” said Minister Roach. “We have seen tremendous success in adult learning in recent years and we recognize the value of adult education, the connection between learning to earning and what it means to growing our economy.”

Prince Edward Island’s post-secondary and continuing education system provides inclusive programming for adult learners to begin, continue, or enhance academic studies and training. In 2014-15, the provincial government invested over $2 million in Adult Basic Education and lifelong learning opportunities.

The Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning ensures learning opportunities are available for Prince Edward Island adults, who did not complete high school in their younger years. Through the adult learning system, adults who are 18 years of age and out of school, for at least a year, may attend the adult basic education program that includes GED preparation and academic credits leading to grade 12 completion. The program is available Island wide and is delivered by Holland College and the Institute of Advanced Learning. Completion of grade 12, as an adult, opens doors to post secondary training, greater opportunities for employment and increased economic stability for businesses and the province as a whole.

“Over 200 adult Islanders complete grade 12 through our GED programs annually. This is a significant accomplishment for each individual, and we are proud to be providing mature students this much needed assistance,” said Minister Roach. “As well, approximately another 600 adult Islanders earn credits required for employment or post secondary education annually. We also recognize that learning does not only take place in institutions. We proudly boast of the activities of the PEI Community Schools Association, which has provided lifelong learning opportunities here in PEI for almost 50 years.”

The Department of Innovation & Advanced Learning provides the PEI Community Schools Association with core funding annually. Over 2000 Islanders attend community schools programming each winter across the province. Courses such as guitar, arts, crafts, introductory computer, and many more are offered to all Islanders. The PEI Community Schools Association depends on over 700 volunteers to plan, organize and deliver programs of interest to all age groups. “As minister, I express my sincere appreciation to the dedicated volunteers who are the foundation of this great organization and to the thousands of Islanders who take advantage of learning new skills through community schools,” said Minister Roach.

For more information on adult learning program in Prince Edward Island, contact the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning Post Secondary and Continuing Education Division at (902) 368-6286.

Adult Learners’ Week was designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2000 and has been celebrated in Canada since 2002.