Yellowknife (Sep 26/03) - Yellowknife MLAs flipped burgers and sizzled weiners during a celebration of adult learning on Sept. 12.

Adult learner Laura Orchard is currently enrolled in the diamond cutting and polishing program at Aurora College, and said in the past few years, she has come a very long way.

"I didn't know how important education was when I was younger," she said. "And I didn't care."

After getting the self-confidence she needed, Orchard took a giant leap, enrolling herself in school again.

"I set my mind to it," she said. "Education has affected my life and my children's lives in a very positive way. You are never too old to learn."

During the barbecue hosted by the NWT Literacy Council, Department of Education, Culture and Employment and Aurora College, Ethel Blondin-Andrew, secretary of state, announced recently approved federal literacy projects in the amount of $599,500 for the NWT Literacy Council and Aurora College to increase the capacity of adult learning in the North.

Blondin-Andrew spoke of the creation of four specific projects. The first is specific to Aurora College, and is designed to enhance literacy services at all seven campuses in the NWT.

The NWT Literacy Council, meanwhile, is focusing the funding on three projects. The family and community literacy development project, the coalition project, which supports the organization to work on strategic plans and promotions, and the youth literacy project.

"Promoting literacy is not confined to a day or a week," said Blondin-Andrew, as she recalled her past experiences as an adult learner.

Jake Ootes, minister of eduction, also spoke at the event, and expressed encouragement to the adult learners in attendance.

"There are challenges dealing with and balancing home life," said Ootes. "Active participation has substantial benefits. I encourage adults to continue the joys of learning."

Although the funding is granted annually to the NWT Literacy Council, Cate Sills, executive director, said it is always appreciated.

"We have come to really depend on it and we need the support," she said.

Since 1990, Human Resources Development Canada has funded 35 projects at a cost of $2.8 million, aimed at enhancing literacy.