Four adult learners are being recognized for sharing their powerful stories about how learning has changed their lives.
Stephanie Paul, from Eskasoni First Nation; Mamawa Kamara of Halifax; Scott Vaughan, of Bridgewater; and Linda Larade, from Dingwall, were recognized at a Literacy Nova Scotia event today, April 4, in Halifax.
More than 50 students submitted essays as part of a contest to celebrate adult learning.
“My family looks at me in a more positive way because I am doing something to better my life,” said Ms. Paul. “I have received many positive comments and am seen as a role model. I have a new appreciation of life and all it has to offer.”
Learners talked about gaining confidence by returning to school and experiencing success. Ms. Kamara has learned to read and write, is able to tutor her children, find employment and send money home to her family in Africa.
“I have the confidence to further my education, to become independent and be a better mother,” said Ms. Kamara.
Mr. Vaughan continues to learn every day. His poem told of the different ways people learn and of having pride in successes. Ms. Larade has become a much stronger, independent woman who believes there are no boundaries with learning.
“These individuals have proven to themselves and others the positive impact that learning can have at any age,” said Kelly Regan, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “They now have the tools to access new learning and career opportunities, and the confidence of knowing they can achieve whatever they set their minds to.”
“Literacy Nova Scotia supports learning wherever it happens, in workplaces, communities, classrooms and within families,” said Jayne Hunter, executive director, Literacy Nova Scotia. “Our contest winners are ambassadors of adult learning, their submissions speak of change and optimism, and are an inspiration to us all.”
International Adult Learner’s Week, which runs through Sunday, celebrates the achievements of adult learners, the organizations that support them and the value and rewards of life-long learning.
The province’s regional libraries have been hosting Adult Learning Week activities all week, including:
— Books2Eat, a reading and eating cake event held at McConnell Library in Sydney
— a keynote address by Writer-in-Residence author Sheree Fitch at the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library
— a book club gathering of the Hantsport Library Book Club to discuss Half-Blood Blues by Esi Edugyan.
“Anytime there is an opportunity to highlight what a great resource we have in our libraries and partner within our communities is important,” said Tony Ince, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. “It’s great that there is a week designated to adult learning. Our regional libraries are available year-round, offering a wide range of programs and activities that support literacy for everyone.”
For more information on adult learning in Nova Scotia, go to http://careers.novascotia.ca or call 1-877-go-NSSAL (1-877-466-7725).
Source: Release
