The EconomicsCanada PEI Forum on Economic Literacy opened today at the Carrefour in Charlottetown. The forum is a partnership involving the Department of Education, the Canadian Foundation for Economic Education (CFEE) and a number of private sector sponsors. EconomicsCanada is a unique initiative in the world and represents the largest program undertaken by any nation to raise the level of economic literacy of its citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the Department of Education, Eldon Rogerson said the province was pleased to lend its support to the project and commented on the importance of economic literacy both in the school system and the business sector. "There are few areas of our lives not affected by the economy. What students know about economic issues, and the extent of this knowledge largely influences their ability to make sound economic decisions, career decisions and everyday life decisions," said the director of English Programs & Services. "Economic literacy also helps adults make more informed decisions related to many areas including careers or jobs, financial planning, home buying and retirement."
Over twenty economics teachers, parents, students, government representatives and members of the business community attended the forum today. Participants were given an opportunity to provide input into the direction of economic education and to address issues related to the impact of economic literacy on community development throughout Prince Edward Island. Participants were asked to review and discuss the CFEE draft document, Guideline for Economic Literacy, which sets out a number of specific understandings proposed as fundamental to all Canadians.
EconomicsCanada is a six-year partnership involving departments/ministries of education from Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. "It is an incredibly ambitious project and our potential for success was predicated on the provinces agreeing to partner with us," said Gary Rabbior, president of CFEE. "The level of provincial support and collaboration is virtually unprecedented and ensures we will make significant progress in helping Canadians of all ages address their economic decisions and responsibilities with confidence and competence."
A final Guideline document will be based on feedback gained from the nation-wide forums.