Released on January 27, 2009
Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ken Krawetz proclaimed January 27 as Family Literacy Day in Saskatchewan on behalf of the Saskatchewan Literacy Network.
"This proclamation demonstrates the province's support of literacy initiatives that heighten public awareness about the importance of family literacy and encourage families to read and learn together," Krawetz said. "Improved literacy levels contribute to increased student achievement, graduation rates and career transitions."
Saskatchewan programs that help people improve their literacy skills, education qualifications, and employment potential received nearly $2 million in government funding this year.
Compared to other provinces and territories, literacy skills of the province's adults are among the highest in Canada. Nevertheless, 33 per cent of working-age adults in Saskatchewan, compared to 42 per cent in Canada, have a literacy level that may limit them in the province's knowledge-based economy.
For more information about Family Literacy Day and literacy in Saskatchewan, visit the Saskatchewan Literacy Network website at www.sk.literacy.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Jacquie McLean
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5609
Email: jacquie.mclean@gov.sk.ca