|
Anna Thistle, MHA for the District of Grand Falls-Buchans and Opposition
Post-Secondary Education Critic, says she has learned that government has
cut work-term funding for post-secondary students by 70 per cent. This
funding cut was another of the hidden items government put forward in their
March budget. "This government is continuing with their attack and
disregard for the students and education system of our province," said Ms.
Thistle. "Earlier this week, I learned that courses are being chopped at
Memorial University (MUN) because of the budget cutbacks announced by
government this spring. University officials confirmed these cutbacks and
are now publicly stating that they would like to see tuition increased to
make up for the shortfall created by government’s cuts.
"Today, I have received information that indicates that both MUN and the
College of the North Atlantic (CONA) will receive 70 per cent less funding
this year for their work-term programs. Last year, MUN received $1 million
for these projects, this year they have been allocated $300,000. CONA
received $500,000 last year, this year they will only receive $150,000.
"This government obviously does not care about the quality of education
and debt load incurred by our students. Many of the Co-op education programs
of our post-secondary institutions are partially or fully funded by
government. These work experiences are necessary components that must be
completed by students before graduation. They help students apply their
classroom learning in the workforce environment which strengthens their
understanding of the subject matter and provides experience which will help
them after graduation. It also helps businesses recruit new employees for
the future. Reduced funding will result in fewer positions and a longer
program. The ultimate result will be more debt and less opportunity for
students.
"The hidden budget announcements of this government are starting to come
to the forefront as we approach this academic year. Their cutbacks are now
starting to have a very negative affect on the education of our students.
What other cutbacks will we discover as the new school year approaches!
"If government wants to grow the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador,
they must realize that education and investment in our young people is a
necessary first step. By cutting the services, programs and initiatives that
help them become educated and trained, we will be harming the future
opportunities that should be created. This latest cutback will certainly do
nothing to help our students." |