University agreements with N.S. government outline funding, accountability rules

Nova Scotia’s 10 universities have recently signed new agreements with the province that outline funding, accountability requirements, and stipulations the schools must adhere to in order to access some of the funding. These two-year agreements come with the condition that universities cannot increase tuition for Nova Scotia residents in undergraduate programs. However, there are no restrictions on tuition increases for students coming to Nova Scotia universities from other provinces, international students, or graduate students.

Advanced Education Minister Brendan Maguire emphasized the importance of providing the best possible education for Nova Scotia students without burdening them financially. He stated that universities will have the autonomy to decide whether to raise tuition for students from other regions, as the focus is on making the institutions attractive without pricing themselves out.

The agreements provide for a two per cent increase in operating funds, which, however, will not keep up with inflation or offset the revenue loss due to the federal government’s cut in the number of international students allowed. Minister Maguire highlighted that the province has limited resources and can only allocate a certain amount of funding to universities.

According to a news release, the 10 universities will receive a boost of $7.7 million in 2025-26 and $7.8 million the following year. However, a portion of the operating grant will be held back if universities fail to meet certain targets, such as filling health program seats, providing housing for students, and maintaining a low vacancy rate in on-campus housing.

The agreements also include the continuation of the Nova Scotia University Student Bursary program, which reduces tuition for Nova Scotian students, and offers preferred admission for Nova Scotian students in specific undergraduate programs. Universities will also be required to increase work-integrated learning opportunities to ensure students have job-ready skills.

While some universities like Saint Mary’s University, Mount Saint Vincent University, and the University of King’s College declined to comment on the agreements, Dalhousie University welcomed the two per cent funding increase and the commitment to affordability for Nova Scotian students. However, they acknowledged the challenges ahead in meeting the terms of the agreement and finalizing their budget.

Peter Halpin of the Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents expressed appreciation for the funding increase but highlighted the financial challenges universities face, including deferred maintenance issues and compliance with accessibility legislation by 2030.

There has been concern among universities about Bill 12, which would increase government oversight and align academic programs with government priorities. The agreements require universities to undergo program reviews to ensure they meet educational standards, respond to labor market demands, and are economically viable.

While Students Nova Scotia applauds the tuition freeze for Nova Scotian undergraduate students, some faculty members have expressed concerns about program rationalization and the impact on academic offerings. The agreements have sparked a debate about university autonomy and potential legal challenges regarding government interference in academic freedom.

Overall, the agreements aim to strike a balance between ensuring affordability for Nova Scotia students, providing quality education, and addressing the financial challenges faced by universities in the province.