In a move to alleviate the financial burden on post-secondary students in Nova Scotia, the provincial government is taking steps to provide additional support. Through a one-time, needs-based grant and an investment to reduce textbook costs, the Province aims to make education more accessible for nearly 12,000 students across Nova Scotia universities, the Nova Scotia Community College, and private career colleges.
Brian Wong, Minister of Advanced Education, emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the financial challenges faced by students. “Affordability is a key issue for them,” Wong stated. “The cost of books can be a real challenge, and I’m proud to take action on solutions that will make a real difference.”
The one-time grant, totaling $1,350, is available to Nova Scotia residents who receive provincial student assistance. This includes students who would have qualified for provincial assistance if not for a temporary increase in federal aid this year. Eligible students, numbering almost 12,000, will be automatically notified through their MyPATH account, and the grant will be deposited into their bank accounts in January or halfway through their study period.
In addition to the one-time grant, an agreement with the four Atlantic provinces will fund the Atlantic Open Educational Resources program for three years. This initiative aims to reduce the costs of textbooks and learning materials for all Nova Scotian students studying in the province. Textbook expenses have been a significant concern, with most Canadian post-secondary students expecting to pay between $800 and $1,000 per year in 2022.
Georgia Saleski, Executive Director of Students Nova Scotia, expressed enthusiasm about the immediate assistance the one-time grant will provide to student loan borrowers. “By further supporting the adoption of locally developed educational resources, students will have access to cost-saving and innovative learning resources tailored to their studies,” Saleski added. “Student affordability continues to be a priority for us.”
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