TORONTO, March 22, 2016 – York University President & Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri welcomes the Government of Canada’s commitments in today’s budget to create a special fund to invest in research infrastructure projects at universities, to increase funding for granting councils and to make post-secondary education more affordable for students.
In presenting his first Federal budget, Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced the government will invest up to $2 billion over three years for new university infrastructure projects. This new funding will enhance and modernize research facilities on Canadian campuses.
Further, the University applauds the Federal government’s enhanced investment in the Federal granting councils and a research support fund. This investment of an additional $95 million per year recognizes the fundamental role of investigator-led discovery research in an innovative society.
Lastly, the University is also pleased that the Federal government has committed to increase the Canada Student Grant amount by 50%. This enhanced grant will provide greater support for our low and middle-income students. Further, the introduction of a flat-rate student contribution to determine eligibility for Canada Student Loans and Grants will make it easier for students to work and gain valuable labour market experience without having to worry about a reduction in their level of financial assistance.
“Today’s budget is a strong signal that the Canadian government recognizes the importance of investing in university research and infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and supporting students as key to building up the Canadian economy,” said Shoukri. “We are pleased that the Federal government has recognized that the prosperity and the future of Canada require that we are able to attract and retain talented people, boost innovation and build a sustainable economy. Investments in our students, our research and our infrastructure are critical to future generations and to a more innovative Canada.”
York University has always been known for championing new ways of thinking that drive teaching and research excellence. Our 52,000 students receive the education they need to create big ideas that make an impact on the world. Meaningful and sometimes unexpected careers result from cross-discipline programming, innovative course design and diverse experiential learning opportunities. York students and graduates push limits, achieve goals and find solutions to the world’s most pressing social challenges, empowered by a strong community that opens minds. York U is an internationally recognized research university – our 11 faculties and 24 research centres have partnerships with 200+ leading universities worldwide.
Media Contact:
Janice Walls, Media Relations, York University, x22101 / wallsj@yorku.ca
