NAPE sounds alarm over cuts to social work seats at Memorial University
NAPE is raising concerns about reduced training capacity for social workers at MUN warning the move could worsen already critical staffing shortages across the province.
NAPE president Jerry Earle says the union recently learned that the university reduced the number of available seats in its social work program by 20 per cent last year. The program has dropped from 100 seats to 80 a change Earle is calling “irresponsible” given the growing demand for social workers.
“This is going to have a significant impact going forward, and will impact the safety of our communities,” Earle said.
The reduction comes at a time when vacancies in the field are already high, raising concerns about the province’s ability to meet increasing social service needs.
In a statement, Memorial University confirmed the reduction took effect in 2025 but noted there are no further cuts planned for 2026. The university says the decision was made to ensure sustainable program delivery.
‘In 2022, the number of seats increased from 80 to 100. However, the increase to 100 seats created challenges for academic staff members, and the increase was revisited to address concerns about the MUNFA collective agreement, and compliance with the School of Social Work’s course equivalency document.
The 2022 increase to 100 seats was reversed and returned to 80 seats for the 2025 academic year. There is no intention to further reduce capacity in 2026. This adjustment should not be interpreted as a reduction in support for the profession, but rather as a measure to ensure sustainable and compliant program delivery. Memorial recognizes the critical role social workers play in Newfoundland and Labrador and remains committed to educating highly skilled graduates.’