Community Learning Good for the Nation’s Health

Community Learning Good for the Nation’s Health

``The volume of feedback from communities throughout the country in response to cuts to funding for community learning in schools, reflects a deeply held Kiwi belief that learning should be accessible to everyone,’’ says Adult and Community Education Aotearoa Executive chairperson, Analiese Robertson.

The fact that over 400,000 New Zealanders take part in community education every year suggests it is something we value and benefit from as a nation. Research supports this view that our nation’s overall health and prosperity is better for our engagement in adult learning.

The kinds of classes that many New Zealanders have been accessing though school night classes may be called ``hobby courses’’ but many learner stories in the media since the Budget have demonstrated that adult and community education can change the lives of people and their families. Participants can be better off in many ways from improved mental health and better self esteem to increased participation in society and further education.

While the government will continue funding literacy, numeracy and foundation skills, the loss of other learning opportunities many of which have those skills imbedded, is of great concern. The loss of a large group of experienced tutors, networks of community education educators and funding to community groups will have an impact on all communities but particularly those challenged by isolation and lack of cultural capital.

The government has said that in hard times, tough decisions must be made. In the short term ACE Aotearoa (the national membership organisation for adult and community education) will work with the government within the refocused environment to minimise the impact on learners and communities. In the longer term, as the global financial crisis eases, ACE Aotearoa will be advocating for a return to the principle of accessible lifelong learning for all.

ENDS

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