By Tyler Sutherland
Children who’ve recently lived in foster care will be offered free post-secondary education from the University of Winnipeg.
Believed to be the first of its kind in Canada, the university has launched the Youth In Care Tuition Waiver program.
“We have a very deep commitment to addressing the needs of youth who are underrepresented in university classrooms, and we know that children and youth in care face multiple barriers that keep them from pursuing post-secondary learning, including financial hurdles,” said Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, president and vice-chancellor of UWinnipeg.
“Removing the tuition hurdle dissolves an important barrier, but more importantly, it says to this group of young people who have faced so many challenges that their dreams matter, that they are welcome and they belong here.”
Up to 10 students per year will be supported through the program, beginning in September. The Province of Manitoba will cover the cost of additional living expenses for youth on extensions of care, including housing, textbooks and meal plans, up until age 21 and while they are attending the University of Winnipeg.
