Workforce literacy: do we have a choice?

Abstract

Rapidly occurring demographic change and the demand for higher and higher skills in the workforce present a challenge for business and education. The investment the workplace makes in basic education for its employees will not only increase skills, but positively affect attitudes toward the employer, stimulate a desire for education and promotion and raise self-esteem. The rich mix of racial, ethnic and global experiences represented in today's workforce is a great potential advantage. We must face the question of best developing this potential for the future. Investment in personnel is not only worth-while--there is no other choice. We must not lose the opportunity.