International Literacy and Livelihoods Experts Meeting: Learning for Life in a Changing World

Abstract

The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) is renewing its commitment to the enhancement of literacy in the developing countries of the Commonwealth by establishing a programme area focused on Literacy and Livelihoods. While the programme activities will build on the work COL is already engaged in, they will also be informed through consultation with policymakers and practitioners experienced in the area of literacy development. In light of the above, COL organised an International Literacy and Livelihoods Experts Meeting, November 15-17, 2004 in Vancouver, BC. The purpose of the meeting was to elicit advice and recommendations regarding initiatives that COL might take up or "add value" to with respect to the provision of integrated literacy and livelihoods learning in Commonwealth countries. A cross section of 26 international experts, representing governments, development agencies, NGOs, international organisations and education institutions participated in the meeting, along with a number of COL staff members. This report provides an overview of the inputs and outcomes of the meeting as well as a recommendation for a strategic framework that is based on a synthesis of the suggestions put forward by the international experts.