From the Back of the Pack to the Top of the Class
October 12, 2011
Alberta is a province with tremendous opportunity: our provincial government is debt free; we have unparalleled natural resources and beauty; and we have an economy that has weathered the economic downturn, ready to lead Canada in growth. Our post-secondary system is an important part of that opportunity and is well-placed to help overcome the challenges that we face.
Today, Alberta has the lowest post-secondary participation rate in Canada; fewer Albertans go on to formal education than in any other province. This budget is the right moment to work on a goal we have been talking about for the past year: to improve our post-secondary participation rate.
Students recommend:
Set more ambitious targets and develop additional measures in the business plan.
Establish an arms-length agency to develop research on our post-secondary system.
Increase non-repayable student financial aid through upfront grants.
Reduce the debt of successful graduates by 50% of the provincial portion of their loan.
Increase operating funds to institutions over three years.