The City of Vancouver has proclaimed September 12, 2016 “Adult Education Day” as students head back to campuses with even less funding than last year.

The implementation of fees and the cutting of funding to adult basic education has lowered enrollment at institutions across the province between 20 and 60 percent.

In December 2014, the government announced a $6.9 million dollar funding cut to adult basic education (ABE) programming at post-secondary institutions across BC and removed the tuition-free mandate. As a result, public institutions are charging up to $1600 per term in tuition fees for ABE courses.

“Vancouver is adding its voice to organizations such as the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and nine other municipalities calling on the BC Liberal government to support this vital program and help students fulfill the province’s job creation goals.” said Simka Marshall, Chairperson of the BC Federation of Students.

“Reinstating free adult basic education is a cost-effective and efficient way for the Province to combat the looming skills shortage and support students and their families.” said Gregor Robertson, Mayor of the City of Vancouver.

The British Columbia Federation of Students is composed of post-secondary students from 14 universities and colleges in every region in BC. Post-secondary students in British Columbia have been represented by the British Columbia Federation of Students and its predecessor organizations since 1966.