Resdac : a reflection on lifelong learning and skills development

An important gathering for the Canadian Francophonie 

From March 4 to 6, 2024, the National Summit on Learning for the Canadian Francophonie, an initiative led by RESDAC (Réseau pour le développement de l’alphabétisme et des compétences- Literacy and skills development network) with the support of the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, was held at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. This important event brought together key players in the Francophonie to address critical issues related to lifelong learning and skills development, with a focus on the specific challenges faced by Francophone minority communities.  

The literacy challenge 

The Summit was prompted by a major concern revealed by the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC), which indicates that 52% of Francophones living in minority communities in Canada have literacy skills below Level 3. This level is considered the minimum threshold for full social and economic participation, highlighting the urgent need for action to improve this situation.

Collège Nordique at the forefront 

Collège Nordique, the only Northwest Territories member of RESDAC, has been actively involved in these discussions, with Patrick Arsenault (Executive Director) and Rosie Benning (Language School Manager) present on-site. This summit takes place in a new legislative context, where a recent law commits the federal government to support the development of Francophones in minority communities by highlighting their cultural and historical importance. It also aims to promote the use and recognition of French in Canadian society, while strengthening quality learning opportunities, in the minority language, through various stages of life.

Towards inclusive and adapted education for the development of Francophones in minority communities 

"The importance of this summit lies in its comprehensive approach to education, embracing formal, non-formal and informal training. It's essential to develop skills that will enable us not only to succeed academically, but also to thrive in a minority environment. Our commitment at Collège Nordique is to offer training tailored to these specific needs, indicating our contribution to the personal and professional development of our community." Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director, Collège Nordique 

A collective commitment to the future

By focusing on this alarming statistic from PIAAC, the summit aims to catalyze a collective commitment to address the challenges within minority Francophone communities, such as Yellowknife. This marks a crucial step towards improving access to quality learning opportunities in French, in line with the aspirations of the Francophone community and the legislative commitments of the federal government. Through its proactive participation, Collège Nordique is demonstrating its commitment to making a significant contribution to this educational evolution.