The provincial government has reinforced its ongoing support for universities with significant investments that will create new opportunities for students and strengthen the ability of universities to make Ontario more competitive and prosperous.

“The McGuinty government is making investments that will have real dividends for the province,” says McMaster President, Peter George. “The investment of $200 million for the maintenance and renewal of university facilities is part of a $970 million commitment to build places to learn and is a clear indication of the importance this government places on universities and colleges and the critical roles our institutions play in Ontario's future.”

The cornerstone of the Budget was a $1.5 billion Skills to Jobs Action Plan. George says, “Universities have a significant role to play in the Plan as programs such as the new McMaster/Mohawk Bachelor of Technology program will create the highly educated and skilled workers the manufacturing sector needs to remain competitive.” The province announced $16.5 million in funding for the B-Tech program earlier this year.

The Budget also focused on the need to support innovation and included an additional $250 million over the next five years for the Ontario Research Fund for investment in research infrastructure. A new International Ontario Strategy received $7 million to attract talented post-secondary students from around the world.

In addition to these important investments in Ontario's knowledge infrastructure, the province has also maintained its commitment to student support, providing new assistance to students through a Textbook and Technology Grant and a Distance Grant for students from rural and remote areas.