Though it calls for $1.3 billion more funding, student groups say the blueprint points to higher fees and bigger debts; U of T Prez says universities must help government make ‘difficult choices’
Monday morning’s release of “Ontario: A Leader in Learning,” the final report of the Rae Review, launched the next stage in the major debate on the future of higher education in Ontario.
Bob Rae, former NDP premier of Ontario, was appointed last fall to advise the provincial government on improvements to the higher education system. He accepted written submissions, conducted research, and ran public consultations, including town hall meetings on each of U of T’s three campuses.
The report, which recommends $1.3 billion in new funding for Ontario colleges, universities, and trade schools, also calls for an end to the province’s current tuition freeze. As a prerequisite for ending the freeze, the report urges changes to student aid, including the introduction of grants for low-income students.
