News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE-WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH ----------------------------------------------------------------- The month of October is designated by the federal government as Women's History Month, and is a time to recognize and appreciate the achievements, throughout history, of women from all backgrounds, occupations, and levels of education. This year the theme is Women and Education. Education and Culture Minister John MacEachern said his department is pleased to recognize the ongoing role of women in education. Throughout history, he said, the contributions and achievements of women as teachers have been great, and they have been the cornerstone of education in this province and continue to be a valued resource. The theme of this year's Women's History Month, Women and Education, not only provides an opportunity to focus on women as educators but as learners as well, the minister said, "The Department of Education and Culture is committed to ensuring an equal education for all. It encourages all teachers to promote equality for women and evaluates authorized learning materials with respect to how women are portrayed." The department has also implemented changes in programs and services to help overcome any bias against female learners. The department's media library provides video tapes to raise awareness of women's issues and the role women play in various fields. Some of these videos are Women in Science, Women Inventors, and Women of Color in Higher Education. School boards have also played an active role in highlighting women's issues, sponsoring gender awareness training and participating in community/school research initiatives such as dating violence prevention and non-traditional career planning. Outside the school system, the department was also involved in the production of a human rights training manual which has a section addressing women's issues. The manual was produced in co-operation with the Maritime Provinces Education Foundation (MPEF). "The Department of Education and Culture will continue to work to ensure that the potential contributions of all women are realized. To do this, the department believes it is essential to develop and implement programs to support the advancement of women in all areas and all levels of education," Mr. MacEachern said. -30- Contact: Sylvia Parris 902-424-3429 trp Oct. 13, 1995