Ontario Tech University welcomes the Ontario government’s investment in post-secondary education

Ontario Tech University welcomes today’s pre-budget announcement by the Province of Ontario of a historic $6.4 billion, four-year investment in post-secondary education, and new funding for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) pathways to support growing student interest in high-demand fields such as nuclear, engineering, mining and artificial intelligence.

“Ensuring universities like Ontario Tech can continue delivering world-class programs with sustainable, real-world impact on Ontario’s economic growth, particularly in key sectors such as nuclear energy, mining and defence, is more important than ever as we navigate U.S. tariffs and global economic uncertainty,” said Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University. “Today’s announcement will help us do our part to keep Ontario competitive, resilient and self-reliant by strengthening the STEM talent pipeline.”

Industry and government projections show Ontario will need tens of thousands of nuclear and other skilled engineers and workers over the next few years. Ontario Tech has been in favour of more domestic student funding for STEM programs for several years. The university welcomes the provincial government’s more targeted approach to support this critical area.

Additionally, while Ontarians navigate affordability challenges in areas such as education, university operating budgets have largely absorbed this added cost. Ontario Tech supports the provincial government lifting the tuition freeze, in a way that reflects inflation but does not increase the burden on Ontario families. The university believes everyone has the right to a world-class education, which is why it sets aside a portion of tuition to assist students with more limited financial means.

The university looks forward to continuing to work with the Government of Ontario, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, and Minister of Finance to help students get the education they need to build a rewarding career.

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Ontario Tech University
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