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Access to postsecondary education will be strengthened by the 2016 Ontario Budget investments

Postsecondary education in Ontario will be strengthened by the measures announced yesterday in the 2016 Ontario Budget, says Sheridan’s President and Vice Chancellor Dr. Jeff Zabudsky.

“Improved access to higher education is one of the clear priorities in the budget,” said Dr. Jeff Zabudsky. “We are pleased with the enhanced support for students and the new investments into college-based applied research.”

The budget helps more low-income students pursue higher learning that leads to a good job without incurring debt. For example, the budget measures will result in free average tuition for every student with a family income of $50,000 or less, starting in the 2017-18 school year.

There are also commitments that students in families with incomes of $83,000 or less will receive non-repayable grants in excess of average tuition, and students in families with family incomes of less than $50,000 will have no provincial student debt. The maximum debt level for higher-income families will be capped at $10,000 annually.

Another budget highlight was an important investment of $20 million over three years for college-based applied research projects. This funding will allow colleges and businesses to work together on real-world research that helps businesses become more innovative and create new jobs.

“The budget recognizes the importance of postsecondary education in preparing graduates who will be key to the province’s future economic growth and long-term sustainability,” said Zabudsky. “It also demonstrates the Government’s commitment to helping more students acquire the qualifications and professional skills that lead to rewarding careers.”


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