Tuition increase at University of Saskatchewan has students worried about affordability

The University of Saskatchewan Students' Union (USSU) is expressing concern about a recently announced tuition hike.

The U of S announced this month it would raise tuition fees by an average of 3.8 per cent.

Krunal Chavda, president of the USSU, said students are already under financial pressure with the rising cost of living, with many living on the bare minimum while taking out student loans.

"They are facing a little bit of a crunch at this time," he said. "Specifically with all the things going around within the country and in the world, they are experiencing immense strain."

Chavda said he knows universities across the country are facing financial pressure, but he hopes they consider the hardships students are facing.

"We brought some points forward to the university, and the university has responded positively regarding that, especially regarding international students," he said.

He said the U of S has a $1-million emergency fund to help students who are in a financial crisis, which is a good, but he still thinks the school can do better. 

"What we have heard from students throughout the year, is that the rising costs of housing and food put students in a very, very bad spot," he said. "They sometimes struggle to cover their basic needs."

Chavda said the USSU wants to make sure post secondary education does not become unaffordable.

"We want more for students. We want to make sure that students are prioritized," he said.

Chavda said he hopes the university works with the provincial government to ensure student financial aid is available and keep tuition affordable for all.

"We want to make sure that students ' voices are being heard at those decision making tables."

In a written statement, the U of S said the tuition hike is needed to ensure the institution is meeting Canadian educational standards and paying for necessary upkeep.

It said the increase is comparable to other universities across the country. It stressed it will still offer financial aid through scholarships, bursaries, tuition waivers and crisis aid.

The university said it makes sure to meet annually with its students to discuss tuition increases.

"Students are our highest priority, and we will work with students to ensure their needs, financial and otherwise, are supported wherever possible," the statement said.