MIDLAND— The Ontario government is investing $583 million over three years to help colleges and universities provide a modern and safe learning environment for students, faculty and staff, both virtually and on campuses. This funding will help institutions modernize classrooms by upgrading technology, carrying out critical repairs, improving their environmental sustainability and supporting virtual learning projects that increase access to postsecondary education for students.
Details were shared today by Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, at Georgian College.
“Ontario’s postsecondary institutions offer world class education, which is critical to the future of the province, and our economy,” said Minister Dunlop. “Our government’s investments to build Ontario will help colleges and universities renew and modernize their facilities and buy vital training equipment so they can continue to deliver high-quality education to students – anytime and anywhere.”
This investment includes:
- $493 million through the Facilities Renewal Program (FRP) to help publicly assisted colleges and universities with the critical maintenance, repairs, upgrades and renewal of existing facilities.
- $60 million through the College Equipment and Renewal Fund (CERF) to help colleges purchase and renew instructional equipment and learning resources.
- $30 million through the new Training Equipment and Renewal Fund (TERF) to help universities purchase and renew modern, state-of-the-art equipment.
To help colleges and universities deliver relevant, high-quality education and training to meet evolving employer needs, some of these investments require institutions to secure matching contributions from a private sector partner. This support will ensure students have access to modern instructional equipment to meet business and industry standards, increase student access to micro-credentials, enhance the overall student experience and support Ontario’s economy.
Quick Facts
- Established in 1986, FRP provides annual funding to help colleges and universities renew and modernize their campuses by repairing and renovating existing facilities, including major building systems upgrades, roof repairs, heating and ventilating system upgrades, and mechanical and electrical system upgrades.
- The government’s investment of $144 million in FRP for 2021-22 is more than double the investment made in 2019-20, helping institutions to address their deferred maintenance backlog.
- Established in 2002, CERF provides annual funding to help publicly assisted colleges purchase and renew instructional equipment and learning resources, such as specialized equipment, machinery or tools for use in labs, shops and classrooms.
- Established in 2021, TERF is a new program that provides annual funding to help publicly assisted universities purchase state-of-the-art equipment that supports in-person instruction or virtual learning, helps to meet industry or business standards, or supports enrolment growth.
Quotes
“We’re pleased the province continues to invest in new technology and critical repairs. This helps colleges deliver programs that are at the forefront of the new economy and accelerating innovation.”
– Linda Franklin
President and CEO, Colleges Ontario
“Ontario’s universities appreciate the government’s investment in critical university infrastructure. Support for university infrastructure means campuses can maximize efficiencies, operate smarter and renew their facilities. This will enable them to continue to provide students with the modern learning environments they need for in-demand jobs; businesses with the spaces to test and scale operations; and researchers with the facilities to make discoveries and spur innovation – all ultimately helping drive a globally competitive province.”
– Steve Orsini
President and CEO, Council of Ontario Universities
SOURCE Province of Ontario
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