Since 2005, the Honourable Danny Williams, Premier of
Newfoundland and Labrador, has annually recognized achievements in
literacy through the Council of the Federation (COF) Literacy Award. The
Premier is now calling on those in the literacy community to nominate a
literacy leader for the 2010 award.
"This award recognizes the contributions of
practitioners and volunteers who work in communities across our province
to help people improve their literacy skills," said Premier Williams.
"The role they play is incredibly important, as literacy is a critical
life skill. The future of our communities — and indeed our province as a
whole — depends on people having the necessary skills to give back to
their communities and support the growth of Newfoundland and Labrador."
In order to bring recognition to achievements in
literacy, the Premiers of every province and territory agreed to create
the COF Literacy Award. The award recognizes outstanding achievement,
innovative practice and excellence in literacy. For the past four years,
13 COF awards have been presented annually, one for each province and
territory.
"Recognizing the critical role education plays in our
success as a province, the Provincial Government has made significant
investments in adult learning and literacy over the past several years,"
said Premier Williams. "Since 2004, approximately $31 million has been
invested in literacy. Education provides the tools for people of all
ages — tools they need to harness their potential and put their
strengths to work for their families, and the greater success of
Newfoundland and Labrador."
This year in Newfoundland and Labrador, nominations
are being accepted for the category of literacy leader. A literacy
leader is someone who, by his or her skills, capability, education,
position and/or accomplishments, has demonstrated leadership
capabilities that have contributed to the advancement of adult literacy
development, either through public awareness, teaching, program
development, volunteer work, research or innovation.
The nomination package can be downloaded at
www.gov.nl.ca/edu. Entries must
be received on or before May 1, 2010.
- 30 -