TORONTO, April 8, 2004 -- Lorna R. Marsden, president and vice-chancellor of York University, today welcomed the announcement of a tuition freeze and compensation funding for universities and colleges by Mary Anne Chambers, Ontario Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. The minister made the announcement at a media conference in the new Student Services Centre at York’s Keele Campus.
The minister announced a two-year freeze of tuition fees for both regulated and deregulated programs and $48.1 million in funding to offset loss of revenues due to the first year of the freeze. Funding for the second year of the freeze will be determined after consultations on the future of post-secondary education in the province. The minister announced the government would “consult with students, parents, industry partners, universities and colleges to develop a long-term plan that ensures a high-quality, accessible and accountable postsecondary education system for future generations.
“We know that more than half of Ontario's secondary students don't go on to post-secondary education and it is important that they feel universities are accessible to them,” said Dr. Marsden. “We are glad the current government is reconsidering how to support students and post-secondary institutions. We also look forward to participating in the upcoming review, and in making sure that York’s voice is heard, so that we can build a foundation for long-term planning.”
The minister said the consultations with stakeholders, which are expected to conclude by Fall 2004, will address topics such as a sustainable long-term funding framework, improved financial assistance for students and improved measures for accountability. These measures could include standards and outcomes, student employability and increased numbers of students participating in post-secondary education.
Minister Chambers made the announcement in front of a large student contingent from York including representatives from the York Federation of Students. Also on hand were dozens of student government representatives from colleges and universities at both the national and provincial levels, and members of the provincial legislature.
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For further information, please contact:
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Nancy White Director, Media Relations York University 416-736-2100, ext. 55603 |
David Fuller Media Relations York University 416-736-2100, ext. 22091 |
YU/058/04
