University of Prince Edward Island student Lian Camargo, originally from Brazil, came to P.E.I. with the expectation of affordable education. However, after two years into his program, the business student now juggles three jobs to make ends meet while staying on top of his studies. Balancing work and academics has proven to be a significant challenge for Camargo, who often studies late into the night and wakes up early to start his workday.
Camargo’s experience is not unique at UPEI, reflecting the broader financial struggles faced by students and the university itself. As concerns over affordability escalate and tuition fees rise, UPEI grapples with its own financial pressures exacerbated by recent federal policies impacting international student enrollment.
Luciana Quiroa Paredes, the president and CEO of the UPEI Student Union, emphasized the widespread impact of the affordability crisis on students’ daily lives, not limited to tuition but extending to expenses like textbooks, rent, and groceries. The student union has been actively advocating for solutions, including the launch of initiatives like the open education resource development program and Free Food Fridays to address student needs.
For international students like Sushil Khatri, co-president of the UPEI Nepalese Society, the financial strain is particularly challenging with the recent tuition hikes. The university attributes these increases to financial constraints resulting from declining international enrollments, a trend echoed nationally following federal policy changes on international student visas.
Despite the financial difficulties, UPEI is committed to supporting its students and preparing them for the job market, emphasizing partnerships with institutions like Holland College to enhance students’ employability. While facing financial pressures, the university has seen growth in areas such as Indigenous studies and the French second-language bachelor of education program, showcasing resilience amid challenges.
