I'm almost done.
Another critical area to share with this committee is essential skills development. This must continue to be at the forefront of improving access and supporting learner success. ACCC has led Employment and Social Development Canada to fund essential skills projects in recent years that have demonstrated the impact of essential skills. For example, findings in 17 pilot projects across Canada indicated that up to 60% of learners and workers tested were below level three literacy, which is what is needed to function in society. After some hours, 24 to 40 hours of essential skills training, students and workers demonstrated learning gains and improved performance.
In closing, I'd like to recommend the following to enhance and create efficiencies in the ASETS and SPF programs: more flexibility in program parameters; enhanced and culturally appropriate prior learning assessments; and expanded essential skills development programs.
During this committee study, we are eager to work with the Government of Canada to improve access to post-secondary education for first nations, Métis and Inuit learners so that we can improve their employment prospects and contribute to the socio-economic development of aboriginal communities.