6 September 2001
BARRIERS TO LEARNING BEING OVERCOME - FARREN
Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Sean Farren, has addressed the Northern Ireland Adult Learners’ Awards Ceremony, at the W5 Centre, Odyssey Arena.
The Awards Scheme for Outstanding Adult Learners was launched by the Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA) earlier year and culminated this evening with the recognition of outstanding learning achievements among adults.
Speaking at the event, Dr Farren said: "This ceremony is a celebration of the success of all adult learners. In my Department’s Lifelong Learning strategy – we set as our goal the creation of a culture of learning to benefit society and the Northern Ireland economy, but, most importantly to benefit the individual learner.
"The crucial ingredient of all of this activity however is the individual who undertakes this learning journey. The person who makes the conscious decision to work towards a learning goal – frequently overcoming significant barriers in the process, even before beginning the actual learning process itself.
"These outstanding individuals recognised here tonight are a huge credit to themselves and their families. They are great ambassadors for the ‘cause’ of lifelong learning."
Minister Farren concluded by saying: "A key theme in our Lifelong Learning strategy is creating a learning culture that requires partnership and collaboration. No single body operating on its own could hope to achieve this daunting challenge – whether Government, individual providers, business or voluntary and community groups. It needs all of us to work together."
Media Enquiries to Kevin Mulhern, Press Office, telephone 028 9025 7790 or mobile 07799 711523.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Earlier in the year Dr Farren officially launched Adult Learners’ Week which ran from 12-18 May and which was organised in Northern Ireland by the Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA). This is the 10th year of the UK-wide initiative which aims to raise the profile of adult learning; celebrate learning achievements; and increase access to guidance, information and advice.
During Adult Learners’ Week EGSA introduced an awards scheme for outstanding adult learners and the awards ceremony tonight is the culmination of this activity. Nominations were invited against a number of categories and further information about the Awards can be obtained by contacting EGSA – 028 9024 4274.