Free Literacy Course Launches at UFV Hope Campus This September

Adults in Hope, British Columbia, will have the opportunity to enhance their literacy skills with a free course offered at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) this September. The program, titled English for Academic Preparation 064 (EAP 064), is set to run from September 19 to December 20, 2023. Aimed primarily at individuals whose first language is not English, this course will focus on improving written literacy skills necessary for success in both academic and workplace environments.

Darla Dickinson, executive director of the Empowered Support Services Society, highlighted the course’s goals: “The aim is to elevate participants’ reading and writing skills to meet university entrance requirements.” Dickinson noted that many residents aspire to upgrade their qualifications, but often find their language abilities inadequate, which can lead to frustration and discouragement.

Eligibility for the course is currently limited to domestic students, including those with Permanent Residency, naturalized citizenship, CUAET visas, and protected status. Participants must have access to a computer with an internet connection. Although spots are available, they are reserved for individuals who have completed their Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) through either Empowered Support Services Society or Chilliwack Community Services. A minimum average score of 6 is required, although those scoring 5 may be accepted under certain conditions.

Statistical data reveals significant educational challenges within the Hope community. According to Dickinson, approximately 22 percent of residents lack any qualifications beyond high school, compared to the provincial average of 14.1 percent. Furthermore, 33 percent of residents do not possess a high school diploma or equivalent. This situation restricts access to both education and employment opportunities, which are critical for economic stability.

These educational challenges correlate with Hope’s economic conditions. The average income in the area is reported to be 34.7 percent lower than the provincial average, while the unemployment rate sits at 11.6 percent, significantly higher than the provincial rate of 6.1 percent. These figures underscore the necessity for accessible literacy programs, particularly free initiatives like EAP 064.

Dickinson expressed hope that strong community interest in this course will pave the way for additional academic and employment support services in Hope. “Demonstrating need is crucial for securing more programs and services through UFV and other agencies,” she said.

While the course is offered at no cost, participants may incur student fees. Dickinson mentioned that Empowered Support Services may assist in covering these costs, provided individuals contact her prior to orientation, which begins on September 12 at the Hope campus. Additionally, while the program focuses on those less fluent in English, there are opportunities for fluent students to participate as well.

“There are many individuals who need to elevate their English skills to advance their careers,” Dickinson noted. She pointed out that various factors, such as time away from formal education or the need to update skills, necessitate such courses.

For those interested in enrolling or seeking more information about the course, Dickinson can be reached by phone at 604-860-0510. Further inquiries can also be directed to Chilliwack Community Services via email.