The fears over Adult Education

Sue Napier MP Shadow Minister for Education and Skills
THE State Opposition has again called on the State Government to recognise the ongoing concerns being expressed by both tutors and learners in the Adult Education area.

“Many people genuinely believe that Adult Education has become the poor cousin of the Tasmanian education system, which is little wonder considering that the State Government has refused to even celebrate its 60th year of operation,” Mrs Napier said.

“Sadly, it remains increasingly evident that the State Government is attempting to downgrade Adult Education by stealth, by cutting courses and contact hours to the detriment of the educational outcomes of participants, and I remain dismayed by allegations of poor treatment of Adult Education staff.

“The State Opposition continues to receive representations from members of the community who are genuinely concerned about the direction Adult Education is heading at a time when more people want to undertake in-work courses, and with more Tasmanians than ever before aged over 55.

“It is absolutely disgusting that State Government has refused to celebrate Adult Education’s 60th year of operation and the Premier should start to acknowledge the true value that this essential educative service provides.

“Mr Bartlett cannot hide behind the excuse that most other states do not provide any direct funding to similar programs around the country when Adult Education in Tasmania is the envy of the rest of the country.”

Mrs Napier expressed concern that no attempt had been made by the State Government to ascertain the views of Adult Education clients and tutors.

“Staff and the public should also be asked whether they want to go in the direction that David Bartlett is taking them, in particular, using a small “a” and “e” for adult education, which the State Opposition has been told is a major concern for tutors and learners and seen as the first step towards outsourcing Adult Education services and the redirection of funds into Adult Literacy,” Mrs Napier said.

“Whilst the State Opposition supports the provision of Adult Literacy programs, it must not be at the expense of Adult Education which can often provide the first successful attempt for many Tasmanians to re-enter education and lead to further education.”