An op-ed warning of the risks posed by the October 19 referendum to the future of the University of Alberta was published in the September 4 edition of the Edmonton Journal.
Jointly written by NASA President Quinn Benders and the presidents of the AASUA, Postdoctoral Fellows Association, and Graduate Students’ Association, the column warns that "All Albertans should be concerned about U of A's future if Alberta separates."
The column outlines the impacts separation would have on the approximately $215 million in federal grants the University receives each year, potential issues with recognition of professional credentials after separation, and the potential impact on future enrollment, especially for international students.
"The referendum questions were not developed with the U of A in mind. But universities can't opt out of the consequences. Our standing as a top research institution rests on stable funding. Students and their families invest heavily in a university education. They need to know that their degree will continue to be recognized both nationally and internationally.
It is imperative that all eligible voters make their voices heard on Oct. 19. What's at stake isn't abstract. It’s the University of Alberta’s ability to educate our workforce, drive research, and contribute billions to Alberta’s economy every year. Our collective future is at stake."
You can read the full column on the Edmonton Journal website.
