Jun 2, 2023
Vancouver, BC – More people are now able to acquire new or upgraded post-secondary skills or knowledge in English, math and science to meet their career goals through Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways at Langara College.
“snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College is proud to offer affordable and accessible education and opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds," said Dr. Paula Burns, President and CEO, Langara College. "This critical funding enables a pathway for adult learners to transition into part- and full-time continuing studies. Our programs provide students the knowledge and skills they need to build exciting new careers and contribute to British Columbia’s economy and community.”
The 2023-2024 Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways provides students access to 26 pathways at 12 public post-secondary institutions. This year's investment follows the Province's $3.5-million investment last year for pathways at public post-secondary institutions throughout B.C. Similar to traditional adult basic education and English language learning programming, pathways are tuition-free for domestic students. Langara received $574,104 in pathways funding.
“Too often, people wanting to improve their work opportunities experience barriers that restrict their ability to prepare for the meaningful career and life they want in B.C.,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “This government is increasing access to learning and upgrading supports, in addition to initiatives in our Future Ready Action Plan, helping British Columbians reach their fullest potential and meet the labour force demands of today and tomorrow.”
For the second year in a row, the B.C. government is funding the Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways, with $3.8 million to provide students the pre-requisites for the post-secondary programs they need to meet their career goals.
The Pathways programming is intended to support people in getting the pre-requisites they need to access high-priority programs, including in the areas of health care, early childhood education, skilled trades and technology. This is in addition to the variety of tuition-free Adult Basic Education and English language learning programming available throughout the province.
“There are misconceptions around upgrading,” said Travis Holmes, an Okanagan College graduate. “People think that upgrading just means you didn’t pass a class, but in my experience, upgrading is training that opens doors and it gave me the opportunity to build the skills I needed to be admitted into the business program.”
Each institution offers unique approaches that reflect the region and customize their pathways to the needs of Indigenous students, students living in rural areas or students who are new to Canada. Pathways are also tailored to in-demand careers, such as health care, early childhood education, skilled trades and technology.
Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways support the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, which is focused on making post-secondary education and training more accessible, affordable and relevant to help people prepare for meaningful employment.
About snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓ Langara College provides university-level education to more than 19,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path. Langara is also known as snəw̓eyəɬ leləm, 'house of teachings', a name given to it by Musqueam, on whose unceded traditional territory the College is located.
Learn more.
Mark Dawson
Manager, Public Affairs
Langara College
mdawson@langara.ca