CFS-NL raises concerns over cuts to social work seats at Memorial University
CFS-NL, Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial student union, is raising concerns about a reported reduction in social work seats at Memorial University, from 100 to 80. The cuts, also flagged by NAPE President Jerry Earle, add to growing alarm among student and labour groups over ongoing funding reductions.
Over the past 12 years, decreased provincial funding has impacted the student experience through fewer course offerings, deteriorating infrastructure, rising tuition, larger class sizes, and reduced first-year labs. CFS-NL says the latest reduction is another example of these cuts.
Chairperson Nicolas Keough is calling on the provincial government to restore funding and invest in post-secondary education, noting that government contributions to Memorial’s funding have dropped from 89.0% in 2012 to 65.7% in 2024.
With the provincial budget expected soon, CFS-NL is urging the Tony Wakeham government to reverse recent cuts and prioritize student wellbeing, expressing hope that increased funding will be recognized as essential to both the university community and the province’s economy.