Workbase, The National Centre for Workplace Literacy & Language
26 May 2001
Adult Literacy Funding In Budget 2001 Gives 'Teeth' To The Government's Adult Literacy Strategy
Workbase, the National Centre for Workplace Literacy and Language, welcomes the new resources outlined in Budget 2001
for supporting adult literacy.
The Budget has announced a commitment of $18 million over four years, as part of its desire to "transform the economy"
through education and training. While it's not yet clear how the $18 million will be spent, it represents a doubling of
funding for adult literacy. The extra funding is designed to support the 'More than Words' Adult Literacy Strategy
released earlier this month.
Commenting on the Budget announcement, Jane Currie, Chairperson of the Workbase Board of Trustees, said: "As New
Zealand's national expert organisation for workforce literacy, Workbase is delighted to hear of the Government's
financial support for adult literacy. It adds 'teeth' to the 'More Than Words' Adult Literacy Strategy.
"The funding provides the real possibility of long-term solutions being found for the literacy training needs of the
business sector. Workbase believe this week's funding announcement signals the Government's long-term commitment to
implementing an effective workplace literacy strategy. Turning around the adult literacy statistics in New Zealand is a
huge challenge. We believe that Literacy is Everybody's Business," Jane Currie said.
"We commend the Government's initiative and look forward to working with business, government and other agencies to
further develop and promote best practice in workforce literacy. A skilled workforce is a prerequisite to improved
business performance in a knowledge-based economy. We are delighted that the government is actively supporting the
economic imperative for improved performance through these initiatives. " Jane Currie says.
Ends