University sector concerned about Houston government’s ‘short-sighted’ education bill
The Nova Scotia government is making moves to assert more control over the province’s 10 universities, sparking concerns within the university community. The Progressive Conservatives recently introduced Bill 12, which would tie university funding decisions to government social and economic priorities. This bill would also allow the minister of advanced education to appoint up to half of the university’s board of governors and could force a university into a revitalization plan. Additionally, the legislation would permit the Nova Scotia Community College to grant degrees.
The sudden introduction of this bill has left many administrators blindsided, with critics calling it “anti-democratic” and likening it to “Trump-style politics.” Peter McInnis, president of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, expressed concerns about the short-sightedness of linking funding to government interests, as political priorities can shift unpredictably. Cathy Conrad, president of the Saint Mary’s University Faculty Union, raised worries about the impact on programs that may not align with government priorities, such as environmental stewardship and the humanities.
The possibility of the government appointing up to half of university boards of governors is also a point of contention. Critics fear that this move could tilt decision-making in favor of political agendas rather than academic considerations. However, Advanced Education Minister Brendan Maguire assured that the province will collaborate with universities to select suitable board members, rather than imposing its choices.
Another cause for concern is the potential for universities in financial trouble to be mandated to undergo a revitalization plan, which could involve merging institutions. David Westwood, president-elect of the Dalhousie Faculty Association, warned that inadequate public funding is already causing universities to crumble, with democratic values under threat as power becomes concentrated in the hands of a few.
Minister Maguire emphasized that the government’s intention is to ensure the long-term viability of universities and prevent insolvency, rather than pushing for mergers. He emphasized the importance of providing universities with the tools they need to remain sustainable and grow.
As the province’s auditor general prepares to release a report on the effectiveness of the Department of Advanced Education in monitoring and holding universities accountable for public funds, the debate over the future of university governance in Nova Scotia continues. The outcome of this legislation will have far-reaching implications for the province’s higher education landscape and the values it upholds.
