Posted by Capilano University Faculty Association, May 8, 2013:
Thank you for your letter highlighting your concerns about the future of Capilano University’s Studio Arts and Textile Arts programs. We understand that the university is facing a $1.3 million budget shortfall, which has threatened about 220 classes in the areas of studio arts, textile arts, interactive design, applied business technology programs, and more.
Times have been tough for BC universities for the past few years. The BC Liberals’ 2013 budget cut funding for the Ministry of Advanced Education by 2.5 per cent or $46 million over the next three years. Every president of BC’s 25 universities and colleges signed a letter protesting these planned cutbacks in 2012. Colleges throughout British Columbia have been forced to cut budgets and reduce programs as a result – the cut of Capilano University’s Arts and Textile Arts programs is surely a result of this.
Education and skills training is the number one priority of the BC NDP, and our platform commits to a needs-based student grant program as well as investing in skills training and apprenticeships. Eighty per cent of the jobs of tomorrow will require some form of post-secondary education or training and access to education is key to growing a sustainable economy that will attract investment, create good jobs, and build ladders of opportunity into a strong middle class.
The decision to cut these programs is ultimately the decision of Capilano University’s Board of Governors, but we urge them to wait until after the May 14th election. The plan does not need to be rushed through. The decision should wait until a new government in BC has the chance to discuss the future of these programs with Capilano University and determine if any additional funding is available at that time.
Sincerely,
Adrian Dix, BC NDP Leader
Vancouver Kingsway
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