LAKELAND - In preparation of what is likely to be the third consecutive year with provincial funding cuts — adding up to a loss of $2.86 million since 2018 — Portage College officials say tuition increases are expected.
Any increases, however, will only bring a portion of this year's projected $904,000 operating funding decrease announced in the recenlty relased 2021 provincial budget. The funding reduction, combined with two previous years of cuts to the provincial funding portion makes up more than 12 per cent of the college's operating needs. A tuition increase of seven per percent — the maximum allowed since a tuition freeze was lifted last year — for all students would bring in an additional revenue boost of about $179,000.
The idea of a tuition increase has been a discussion point with student representatives, says Portage College President and CEO Nancy Broadbent.
“Student consultation went well, as students understand the position of the College,” said Broadbent. “However, even with going to the max increase of seven per cent for tuition fees, this increase will only partially offset the $904,000 loss.”
College officials are saying that tuition increases will have to be further examined so they don't adversely affect some learners who may already be struggling economically.
"The College recognizes that post-secondary institutions are key partners in driving economic recovery by skilling and upskilling the workforce, particularly for underrepresented populations," she said, explaining that college officials will selectively apply the tuition increase to protect the most vulnerable learners and those entering careers with lower earning potential.
While the provincial budget announcement wasn't good news, the college president says the response to the challenge is part of an ongoing strategic plan.
“Although this announcement was worse than we anticipated, it is within our planning model,” said Broadbent. “Where we can, we will continue to try to buffer cuts by finding efficiencies, reducing costs and through attrition.”
Broadbent credits the students, staff and communities served across the Lakeland for their continued resiliency in the face of the funding challenges.
“Our students, faculty, staff, and managers are resilient,” said Broadbent. “We have faced challenging times before and have come through even better in many cases. I am confident we will do so again.”
The institution's plans for their own budget, including how tuition increases will be rolled-out, will be taken to the college's Board of Governors for approval in the coming weeks.
