Students at the University of Manitoba rallied on Thursday to oppose a proposed four percent tuition increase set for consideration by the board of governors on April 16.

The province recently approved post-secondary institutions to raise tuition by up to four percent for the 2026-27 academic year, marking the largest such allowance in Manitoba in nearly a decade. Student leaders argue this hike exacerbates existing affordability challenges amid rising living costs.

Students Highlight Financial Strains

Heaven Kaur, vice-president of university affairs for the University of Manitoba Students’ Union, emphasized the difficulties students face. “It’s very tough out here,” she said. “While students are buying textbooks … it can cost … $200, all the way to $500. Our food bank here at the institution has seen an increase in users, from roughly 50 to 60 people to well over 500.”

Kaur questioned the necessity of the increase, noting a two percent rise in provincial operating grants. “There’s so many other ways that, as an institution, we can be supporting our students and not increasing tuition by four per cent,” she added.

Protest participants shared personal impacts. Mike McCurdy described tough choices ahead: “For me personally, I just have to either find a second job … or ask my parents … or possibly take less classes so that tuition is less money.” He worried this could delay graduation and hinder job prospects.

Jasper Beach echoed the sentiment, struggling with basics like gas and insurance after denials for government aid and a line of credit. “There’s really not enough support for students,” he stated.

University Cites Funding Pressures

University President Michael Benarroch defended the potential increase to address financial strains. Provincial funding has declined in real terms over the past decade, he noted. Although a two percent operating grant boost arrived, it falls short of covering costs.

“While we saw a rise in domestic student enrolment this fall, it cannot compensate for the 40 per cent drop in international enrolment or replace the revenue, innovation and diversity of thought those students brought to our campus,” Benarroch said in a statement.

Tuition at the University of Manitoba remains 22.5 percent below the national average, with commitments to accessibility through scholarships and bursaries. Some students, like McCurdy, recognize the institution’s challenges, saying the rationale “makes sense,” though it complicates balancing studies and expenses.