The following information gives insight into how literacy services are currently funded and delivered in Ontario, and throughout Canada. While traditional educational institutions fall under the jurisdiction of provincial and territorial governments, adult literacy is managed by both provincial and federal government departments.
Literacy Infrastructure in Canada
The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES), under the department of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRDSC), is the federal supporter of provincial and territorial literacy coalitions and funds various projects across Canada.
The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES), under the department of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRDSC), is the federal supporter of provincial and territorial literacy coalitions and funds various projects across Canada.
To support adult learning, OLES works in collaboration with a variety of partners, such as Government of Canada departments, provincial and territorial governments, provincial and territorial coalitions, national organizations and programs across the country.
For more information, visit the OLES website
Our Literacy Partners section lists Canada’s National Literacy Organizations and Provincial/Territorial Coalitions.
Literacy Infrastructure in Ontario
Ontario has a sophisticated delivery and infrastructure system that supports adult literacy, academic upgrading and basic skills development. Each element plays a critical and necessary role.
Ontario has a sophisticated delivery and infrastructure system that supports adult literacy, academic upgrading and basic skills development. Each element plays a critical and necessary role.
The Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) manages the Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) Program for adults who need assistance in developing literacy skills or who seek admission to Academic Upgrading (AU). Employment Ontario delivers the LBS Program and funds literacy agencies (community-based organizations, school boards and colleges) to provide LBS training.
MTCU, Employment Ontario and the LBS Programs What is the role of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities versus Employment Ontario? What are the objectives of LBS programs?
To learn more about the adult literacy infrastructure in Ontario, visit our Literacy in Ontario page.
Our Literacy Partners section below lists Ontario’s Literacy Organizations.
Find a literacy program in your community to upgrade your skills or get information for someone you know.
