Project -		Developing a National Framework for Essential Skills: Seeking Harmony while Respecting Diversity

 

Project funded by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)
February 2010 to February 2013

The Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) is managing a three-year project (February 2010 to February 2013) designed to increase the employability of Canadians currently excluded from the labour market: Aboriginals, newcomers to Canada, unskilled workers and the unemployed. A National Framework will be created to support their Essential Skills (ES) development. The National Framework has two components: an integrated process to ES development and a national repository of ES resources. Funding is provided by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada at a value of $4.8 million.

The project will engage a wide range of participants from across Canada, including representatives from colleges and institutes, sectors councils, employment service providers, literacy organizations and target client groups. Project resources also include experts in ES, in program design, in action research methodology, and in results-based management. The project promises to be an exploratory journey as the participatory action research process unfolds. The level of interest and ownership will grow while developing and disseminating the National Framework. The Framework will be widely available on websites, including ACCC’s, and will be presented at national events.

Canadian colleges and institutes as well as partner organizations involved in this project will have opportunities to influence the long-term national agenda on ES. This will include contributing to the development of the National Framework, showcasing innovative accomplishments in the field, as well as enriching and strengthening their repertoire of ES tools and practices developed for their respective target groups that are adaptable to regional economic realities and characteristics.