Queen's Park, the seat of the provincial parliament

Ontario universities welcome investment in education by provincial budget

The provincial budget released Wednesday recognizes that one of Ontario’s strongest assets is its people, and that postsecondary education is key to a better future for students, communities, and the province, the Council of Ontario Universities said in a media release.

“Strong postsecondary institutions for a strong Ontario will require investment,” said COU president David Lindsay.

“Ontario’s universities produce a rich talent pool, generate research and innovation to improve our health care and our environment, and they help enhance our global reputation as an attractive place to live and invest.”

The budget reiterated the government’s commitment to help universities develop the highly skilled workforce that is pivotal to Ontario’s economic future, making investment in modern learning environments and experiential learning.

The council also welcomed increased financial aid, reforms to the Ontario Student Assistance Program, expanded mental health services, and a postsecondary strategy on internationalization.

The council pledged to continue its “work with government and employers to ensure Ontario has the quality postsecondary system necessary to provide the talent and research which is vital to the future prosperity and quality of life for all regions of the province.”

Read the entire message on the COU website.