The Role of Education in Welfare to WOrk

Ben Levin

University of Manitoba

November 17, 2003

Three Key Points

More education will not solve problems of welfare

We could do much better in supporting education provision

There are some real barriers to action

How Important is Education?

Dangerous to assume that education=employment

Labour market is variable, regional

Education system is more equitable than the labour market

Canada has underuse of skills as well as lack of skills

OECD Equity Frame for Learning

Encouraging individual participation and successe.g. funding, recruitment

Changing institutional delivery systems and methodse.g. programs, delivery modes

Changes in broader social policye.g. child care, income support

Improving Provision

Importance of real credentialsShort and long term plansCareer laddersPrior learning assessment

Targeted programs, institutionsMultiple supports to learnersPersonal, academic, financial Importance of settings goals, efficacy

Barriers to Moving Forward

Disconnect between education and welfare systemsFocus on short-term savings

Lack of innovation in all systemsFederal-provincial conflictsJurisdictionMoneyCredit

Thank You

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