Mr. Speaker, the Department of Education, Culture and Employment continues improving its programming to ensure adult learners have the tools they require for fulfilled, prosperous lives.

The Department has been developing a process for adults to receive their high school diploma, called the Adult Recognition Model, or ARM. Through ARM, adults enrolled in Adult Literacy and Basic Education programs may receive high school credits for a combination of academic course work and knowledge or skills they have gained through life experience.

YELLOWKNIFE (Wednesday, October 24, 2012) – The first strategic plan on French language services offered by the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) was tabled today at the Legislative Assembly.

Yellowknife, le mercredi 24 octobre 2012 – Le premier plan stratégique sur les services en français du gouvernement des Territoires du Nord‑Ouest (GTNO) a été déposé aujourd’hui à l’Assemblée législative.

Mr. Speaker, languages are about identity – who we are and how we understand and interact with each other. Promoting our languages harmonizes with a connection to cultural values, and provides a sense of identity and belonging.

Mr. Speaker, one of the priorities for this Assembly is to strengthen awareness of our Northern identity and uniqueness by promoting our many diverse cultures. I am very pleased to advise this House that the Department of Education, Culture and Employment held a ceremony today to celebrate the tremendous contributions that people from all across this territory have made to keep our cultures vibrant and alive.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 17, 2012) – Five Northwest Territories residents and organizations were honoured this morning at the second annual Minister’s Cultural Circle Award Ceremony. The event took place in the Great Hall of the Legislative Assembly and was as a way to recognise the important and lasting contributions of those dedicated to the arts and cultures of the North.

INUVIK (October 10, 2012) – This morning marked the official grand opening of Inuvik’s new super school, East Three.

“Students need sound infrastructure with a healthy and safe environment to learn and grow in,” said the Honourable Jackson Lafferty, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. “A new school means a fresh start for the community and endless possibilities for students. I want to congratulate everyone involved with this project, and thank them for all their hard work.” 

INUVIK (October 5, 2012) – Building on the success of the June 2012 roundtable, the second antipoverty roundtable was held this week in Inuvik to further shape the Antipoverty Strategy.  This strategy is a partnership between the Government of the Northwest Territories and Aboriginal governments, business, industry, non-profit and nongovernmental organizations.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 2, 2012) – A comprehensive curriculum on Residential Schools was launched today at the start of a three day information session for teachers from the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.