On January 23-26, delegates from more than 17 students’ unions across the province came together in Burnaby to attend the Federation’s 43^rd Annual General Meeting. With the theme of “Old Problems, New Approaches”, this year’s AGM set out to educate members on the issue of chronic underfunding in post-secondary education, and to spark new ways of thinking about how to address the budget cuts and service reductions we see on campuses as a result. Student representatives also discussed how to advocate for a better and more affordable student experience, both at individual institutions and at the provincial level.

The AGM was packed with sessions that highlighted what’s currently at stake in the sector if nothing is done to address the funding crisis – students’ futures and their ability to access higher education. Delegates had the opportunity to learn directly from coalition partners and community organizations, discovering how underfunding affects students and the broader community. These sessions provided a platform for students’ unions to share strategies and work in solidarity, strengthening the call for increased funding across the sector.  

The Federation extends gratitude to the Elders from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, as well as Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, Critic for Post-Secondary Education and CUFA-BC for bringing greetings. We also wish to thank panelists and speakers from Generation Squeeze, Food Banks BC, Living Wage BC, CCPA-BC, CUPE BC, FPSE, Earnscliffe, the BC Federation of Labour and Core Firm for educating and inspiring delegates in their journeys in the student movement.

But most of all we wish to thank the student representatives from across BC; some of who put themselves forward to run in the Federation’s election, and all of whom used their time at the AGM to build connections with other student leaders, and discuss how we can unify and amplify students’ calls for the government to invest in post-secondary education.

Time and time again, the AGM serves as a powerful reminder of our collective accomplishments, and all that remains to be done to secure an affordable, accessible, and high-quality post-secondary education system. The Federation looks forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and forward momentum.

Thank you to everyone who attended! Above all, remember to get involved—we’re all in this together!

How Can You Get Involved?

Outside of the AGM, students can still get their voices heard. The problems in post-secondary sector still exist and students have the right to demand for a more affordable, accessible and high-quality post-secondary experience. Take action by sending an email to the Premier, the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, and your MLA. Join the call to stop more cuts on campuses and more funding for our institutions. Follow us on our Instagram: @thebcfs and keep up to date with the work that students are taking for post-secondary education.