11 Apr UPEI Student Union Responds: Youth Welcome Investments in Post-Secondary Education
UPEI Student Union Responds: Youth Welcome Investments in Post-Secondary Education
Charlottetown, April 11, 2025 – This week, Hon. Jill Burridge, Minister of Finance, released the province’s operating budget for 2025-26, and the message is clear. The Government of Prince Edward Island is committed to investing in youth and making our economy stable in the long term by retaining our young talent.
Hon. Burridge announced an increase in the George Coles Bursary and the Marion L. Reid Bursary from $3,200 to $3,500 – a full year earlier than previously committed. We are encouraged by the decision to expand the Marion L. Reid Bursary to include other in-demand occupations, demonstrating the province’s dedication to supporting Island youth who must go off-island for their preferred degrees.
“We are encouraged to see the Government taking action to support islanders, especially students, eager to contribute to their communities,” said Shreesh Agrawal, Vice-President External of the University of Prince Edward Island Student Union.
To secure our workforce, youth need strong networks with industry while they study to build meaningful connections and ensure a smooth transition into the labour market. We are encouraged by the Government’s $1.5 million investment to reskill, upskill and create opportunities for our young Islanders. Key initiatives that fall under the scope of this program include the proposed part-time internship program for graduating students valued at $65,000 annually and the renewal of the International Student Employment Support Program (ISESP) valued at $215,000 annually. With the potential to create impactful experiences for 50 students each year, these programs will contribute to securing the future of our Island economy.
Through the Speech From The Throne, the Government also committed to reviewing other student financial support programs to make them more accessible. We urge the provincial government to address student concerns and continue supporting our Island youth in accessing student financial aid.
The UPEI Student Union remains committed to working with the provincial government on any measures that can benefit our students, as well as implementing those announced this week. These announcements signal interest in the youth voice, and we look forward to future cooperation by continuing to share the concerns and needs of PEI’s post-secondary students.
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Leena Daboo
Marketing and Communications Manager
communications@upeisu.ca