15 January 2001

FARREN LAUNCHES ADULT LEARNERS' WEEK

"Giving people better and easier access to learning is vital to individuals and to Northern Ireland," the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment, Dr Sean Farren, said today as he launched Adult Learners’ Week and officially opened new premises at the Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA), Linenhall Street, Belfast.

Speaking at the launch Dr Farren said: "The Programme for Government states that the Executive will seek to provide high quality education for all with equal access for all. This is important for social and community development and is a major engine in our economic development.

"Adult Learners’ Week is an ideal opportunity for us to build on what we are already doing to bring that about. It will give those involved in the provision of adult education the chance to build upon existing networks and partnerships, will allow us to celebrate the achievement of learners, promote participation in learning and increase access to information, advice and guidance."

The Minister highlighted a number of initiatives that have already been undertaken by his Department to assist adults access learning, including the provision of additional resources to further education colleges, Individual Learning Accounts, the University for Industry, and the Learndirect Freephone Helpline.

Complimenting EGSA on its contribution to adult learning the Minister added: "EGSA has played an important role over the last 30 years in encouraging adults to increase their learning. That has brought real and practical benefits, not just for the individuals concerned, but for their families, communities and indeed Northern Ireland as a whole.

"The important thing now is to build on the solid foundation that they and others have created. Adult Learners’ Week, and EGSA’s new premises will help us to do just that."

If you would like to know more about Adult Learners’ Week telephone EGSA on 02890 244274 or Learndirect on 0800 100900.

 

Media enquiries to Kevin Mulhern, Press Office, telephone 02890 257790 or mobile 07799 711523

 

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