Adult Learners take their 'First Steps' back into training

The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Employment and Learning travelled to Dungannon to see how adult training can give people a second chance at learning.

The Committee, which held its weekly meeting in the First Steps Women’s Centre, spoke to members of the Forum for Adult Learning Northern Ireland (FALNI) about the importance of helping adult learners improve their skills and chances for employment.

FALNI presented a strong case to the Committee of the huge importance of encouraging people to take advantage of lifelong learning, particularly where early educational experiences had not been positive.

Deputy Chairperson of the Committee, Thomas Buchanan, MLA said: “The case that was put forward by FALNI was compelling, particularly in these difficult economic times. We all know how crucial it is for people to be able to improve their skills, both to help them gain employment and to improve the prospects for our economy.

“We have heard many people, today and in other visits, talk passionately about how poor educational experiences have blighted their lives--it is important that we facilitate all people to take advantage of lifelong learning. This is an issue that the Committee believes strongly in and one that we will be returning to in our future work programme.”