University of Manitoba (WIKIPEDIA)
WINNIPEG — Post-secondary students plan to rally at the Manitoba Legislative Building today to demonstrate the importance of accessible, affordable and high-quality education.
Their concern is unregulated tuition fees, which they say could slam the door on opportunity for many Manitobans.
“We need strong, stable public funding for post-secondary education in Manitoba,” says Michael Barkman, chairperson of the Canadian Federation of Students — Manitoba.
“A well-educated society benefits everyone, through lower dependence on social welfare, the justice system, and health-care system. Students are fighting for their ability to pursue education for the greater good of society.”
CFS says a jump to the national average on tuition could see Manitoba’s rates increase between $2,000 to $2,500 per year.
The Pallister Conservatives recently indicated a possible increase to students’ tuition province-wide.
Students and supporters will gather on the front lawn of the University of Winnipeg at noon before marching to the legislature at 12:30 p.m. Several speakers are slated to address the crowd at 1 p.m.
