NIACE Dysgu Cymru is a key partner of Ufi Cymru. Together, the organisations focus on the promotion of adult learning linked to the Welsh Assembly Government’s skills, employability and social justice agendas.

Mr Humphreys said: “Widening access for those under-represented in education and training is a key priority for both NIACE Dysgu Cymru and Ufi Cymru. Working with a whole range of learning providers throughout the country, we can improve and advance adult learning within communities throughout Wales. Our common aim is to encourage, inspire and empower people to learn. Learning can change lives as new skills bring new opportunities, and better skilled communities generate wealth and prosperity for the economy of Wales.”

Adult Learners Week 2006
Adult Learners Week took place again in May 2006 and was combined with a celebration of 21 years of NIACE Dysgu Cymru. The event, run annually across 40 countries, brings together a wide range of education

providers and community groups in a week long celebration of learning. Mr Humphreys continued: “Once again, Adult Learners’ Week has aimed to entice people into learning by encouraging individuals to ‘try their hand at something new’. In Wales, over 300 providers, colleges, universities, community and voluntary organisations, action groups and local authorities pooled their resources to help bring a taste of learning into people’s lives.”

Ufi Cymru is proud to support NIACE Dysgu Cymru’s core campaigns; Adult Learners’ Week in May, Sign up Now in August/ September, and Taking Control in January. Head of learndirect in Wales, Jeff Greenidge said: “The NIACE campaigns are critical in raising the importance of learning at both a social and a political level.”

Mr Humphreys continued: “The success of these campaigns relies upon the support and enthusiasm of partners and sponsors throughout the Country. Thousands of success stories each year llustrate the value and the impact of

this collective effort.”

Learning outcomes
Mr Humphreys emphasised: “The benefits of learning are widespread. For many, learning presents the opportunity to improve lives in small, but important ways. Hundreds of individuals gain skills to help them get on at work whilst others gain satisfaction from learning for the fun of it. Learning can transform lives beyond all recognition, and can help individuals overcome incredible hurdles and difficulties.

“Different learners feel comfortable with different styles of learning and providers offer a variety of approaches. learndirect courses are successfully encouraging adults back into a learning environment with their offer of a flexible route to learning. It is important for us to be able to offer a comprehensive package to individuals so that learners can chose a style to meet their needs.”