National Adult Literacy Database

The Conference Board of Canada workplace education case studies series highlights businesses that demonstrate effective practices in encouraging and supporting workplace learning. This case study looks at the Learning Centre at the Diavik Diamond Mine. Located in a remote and isolated area of the Northwest Territories, Diavik and its major contractors employ more than 700 people, of which 70 per cent are northerners, and nearly 40 per cent are Aboriginal persons. Many of the full-time and contract workers come to Diavik with minimal literacy and numeracy skills. The company has therefore implemented a number of skills and competency development programs to ensure that it has a highly productive, knowledgeable, skilled and safety-conscious workforce. Diavik has been recognized for its efforts as a leader in Aboriginal relations, employment and capacity building.

This case study looks at various aspects of this successful workplace learning program, including the program's background and objectives, target groups, learning activities, challenges, keys to success and benefits.

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