The Manitoba government is increasing funding for adult learning and literacy programs.

The province says it is investing an additional two-and-a-half million dollars to strengthen and expand adult education programming, bringing total funding for adult learning and literacy to 24-point-9 million dollars.

That includes one million dollars dedicated to First Nations and northern communities.

Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable says the funding is meant to help more Manitobans earn high school credits and diplomas, improve literacy and numeracy skills, and prepare for in-demand jobs.

The province says the money will also help stabilize existing programs and support recruitment and retention of front-line staff.