November 15, 2023
Ministry of Colleges and Universities

TORONTO — Today, Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, issued the following statement in response to receipt of the blue-ribbon panel’s report:

“Our government created the blue-ribbon panel of experts to provide advice and recommendations for keeping the postsecondary education sector financially stable and focused on providing the best student experience possible.

Over the past few months, the panel conducted research and consultations with key stakeholders. Their work was guided by the following principles:

• enhancing student experience and access;
• rewarding excellence and financial sustainability;
• improving labour market alignment;
• promoting economic growth and prosperity; and
• keeping education affordable for lower and middle-income families.

The blue-ribbon panel’s report with their recommendations is now available online. This is a major milestone on the path to supporting the quality, accessibility and sustainability of the postsecondary sector, now and for years to come.

Our government is carefully reviewing the panel’s recommendations to create a path forward that will continue to strengthen the postsecondary sector. It’s my expectation that we will work with postsecondary institutions to create greater efficiencies in operations, program offerings and sustainability of the sector. Before agreeing to any tuition increases however, we need to ensure that colleges and universities are taking the necessary steps to ensure that they are operating as efficiently as possible. I look forward to working with postsecondary institutions in the weeks ahead to determine how best to achieve these shared objectives.

I would like to thank the panel members, and everyone who took the time to share their valuable perspectives with the panel.

I would also like to express my gratitude to Dr. Harrison for acting as the chair of the panel and lending his leadership and extensive knowledge in the finance, governance and operations of postsecondary institutions.

By continuing to work together with our partners, I am confident we will build on the solid foundation of the postsecondary system and protect it for current and future students, so they continue to receive the world-class education Ontario’s institutions provide.”

Media Contacts
Liz Tuomi
Minister Dunlop’s Office
Liz.Tuomi@ontario.ca

Ivo Felipe
Communications Branch
416-325-2746