Supports for students, nursing expansion, and research in 2022-23 UM budget

The University of Manitoba’s Board of Governors approved the University’s 2022-23 $698.5 million general operating budget on May 24, 2022.

UM’s Board of Governors approved an increase in tuition rates and fees of an average 3.7%. The specific program by program impact can be found on page 76 here. Added revenue from tuition will support rising educational delivery costs, including salary increases, and will allow for continued investment in research and student supports including additional funding for students with financial needs. The University of Manitoba continues to offer, on average, the lowest tuition in Western Canada and remains one of the most affordable institutions in all of Canada.

The new spending in this latest budget aims to mitigate the impact COVID-19 has had on students through supports and investments in student experience across the institution, including financial aid for those in need and student mental health. It will address the needs of our community, including educating health care professionals, sustainability, EDI and funding world-class research into society’s greatest challenges.

“This budget will help us deliver on our commitment to provide an outstanding work and learning environment,” says Michael Benarroch, UM’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “We are investing in the needs of our diverse university community and ensuring we continue to support the economic, cultural and social success of this province and its people.”

In the last fiscal year, UM established emergency bursary funding for students impacted by the pandemic, international conflict, and extraordinary life events. This budget will continue to support students by providing increased aid for students facing financial need. Resources will also be directed toward advisors and Elders who play a significant role in helping students navigate their personal and academic journeys.

Greater investment will be made in programs that enrich the student experience, including the Office of Experiential Learning and IdeaStart. Established this past spring, the Office of Experiential Learning helps instructors bring experiential learning into the classroom, in ways that allow students to apply their learning in a range of diverse contexts. UM’s new IdeaStart program will support entrepreneurial venture development throughout our campuses by creating opportunities for students, faculty and staff to bring their business ideas to life.

An increase in funding to the College of Nursing in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences will increase student intake and help address the province’s current nursing labour shortage. UM is home to one of Manitoba’s leading nursing programs whose students have served on the frontlines throughout the pandemic with commendable commitment and compassion.

A significant investment will also be made towards supporting researchers and graduate students who continue to make a positive economic impact in our province and our world. UM will provide matching funds for research grants and support for new and emerging lines of research in key areas including climate change, global public health, supply chain management and Reconciliation.