Alberta's new affordability framework a flop

Alberta Advanced Education Minister Denis Herard announces Alberta's new tuition policy

New university tuition policy announced

(Edmonton, AB) – Minister of Advanced Education Denis Herard recently announced Alberta's new affordability framework, the long-awaited answer to Premier Klein's Feb. 8, 2005 'fireside chat' promise to deliver the "most innovative, entrepreneurial and affordable tuition policy" in the country.

The Minister confirmed previous announcements that tuition increases will now be tied to the Alberta Consumer Price Index, starting from today's tuition levels, which have been held constant since 2004. At the University of Alberta, base annual tuition is $4,537.20 for an Arts, Science or Education student. Students in other programs, such as Law, Medicine and Dentistry, will continue to pay hefty 'differential fees' which were not reigned in at all today. Overall, tuition in Alberta remains nearly $500 above the Canadian average.

"In order for the government to meaningfully fulfill its original tuition promise, they would need to cut tuition to at least a level comparable to Newfoundland or Manitoba," said Samantha Power, President of the U of A Students' Union. But instead of reducing the onerous up-front costs, the government has tried to shift the promise from reducing costs to increasing student debt."

The Minister announced a number of changes to the Alberta student loan program that would make it easier for students to access debt, including a planned reduction of the parental contribution calculation, increased vehicle exemptions, and increased living allowances. Herard also proposed reduction of student loan interest rates and suggested that they will place more emphasis on grants, yet no details on firm financial commitments were offered.

David Cournoyer, Vice President (External) of the U of A Students' Union, was skeptical about the government’s commitment to non-repayable student aid.

"After they stated that students could expect the most affordable tuition policy in the country and not delivering, how can students trust this government to help them reduce their debt loads and the barriers they face in completing a post secondary education?" Cournoyer said.

Related Links:

Council of Alberta University Students

Alberta Government Advanced Education

For more information, please contact:

David Cournoyer
Vice President (External)
University of Alberta Students' Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: vp.external@su.ualberta.ca
W: www.su.ualberta.ca