Post-Secondary Institution Review

On November 25^th 2025, the BC government announced an independent review of the financial sustainability of Post-Secondary Institutions (PSIs), citing concerns with the rising deficits in many of our colleges and universities. This review will be performed by former BC deputy minister Don Avison, with consultation ending on January 15^th 2026 and the final review to be presented on March 15^th 2026. The goals of the review, outlined in the terms of reference, include making recommendations for improved governance and operational structure and program delivery improvements, as well as identify opportunities to adjust or improve revenues.

Although a review of the BC post-secondary system is certainly in order, the goals and timing of this review raise grave concerns. First and foremost, the January 15th consultation deadline means that majority of the consultation period occurs during exam season, marking, and university closures, leaving students and universities little time to respond. In addition, they have announced that they have no intention of increasing funding for PSIs – the obvious and needed solution. Instead, they have suggested potentially removing or adjusting the 2% limit on domestic tuition increases, which keep post-secondary education accessible for all. The Executive Board of the GSS has written a letter to Don Avison expressing these concerns and more.

These concerns have been echoed by other student societies, unions, and university groups, including the Alliance of BC Students (ABCS) and the Alma Mater Society of UBC (AMS), the BC Federation of Students (BCFS), and the Camosun College Faculty Association (CCFA). The review has been picked up by various news networks and other analysts, including Castanet (1, 2), Higher Education Strategy Associates, the Vancouver Sun, and the CBC.

Interested, concerned, or want to get involved? Contact gsschair@uvic.ca for more information. In addition, the GSS is hosting a working group to teach students about advocacy, letter writing, and how to communicate your concerns to Don Avison and your MLA.

1. Advocacy 101 Training Hosted by Kyla – 2-4pm Tuesday, January 6, Grad House Board Room. Lecture and workshop on advocacy that is applicable to any advocacy campaign.
2. Advocacy Letter Writing Training with Kyla – 1-3pm Wednesday, January 7, Grad House Board Room: Lecture and workshop on drafting one or more response letters to the PSI review.
3. Provincial Funding Review Advocacy Working Group/Drop in support with Kyla – 1-3pm, Wednesdays, Jan 14, 21, 28, Grad House Board Room: Open two hours weekly for interested parties to come together to workshop advocacy ideas specific to the provincial funding review.