Niagara’s post-secondary institutions will be sharing $14.7 million from the provincial government to address financial impacts of COVID-19.
Brock University will receive $7.9 million and Niagara College $6.8 million.
The investments, part of Ontario’s total commitment of $106.5 million for post-secondary schools in the province announced Friday, are designed to offset pandemic-related costs, including those associated with online learning, personal protective equipment and enhanced cleaning.
Brock said in a news release the funding will allow it to advance its academic and research plans, which include continuing to progress in development of services and programs that may have been delayed or altered by the pandemic.
“This funding helps ensure the university is in a sustainable position to advance our academic mission and support job creation across the region,” said president Gervan Fearon.
Niagara College president Sean Kennedy said his institution is grateful for the funding “and for recognizing the significant financial challenges associated with COVID-19.”
“This important investment enhances our ability to support our students and our community and fulfil our important role in the economic recovery that lies ahead,” he added.
Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, called the investment “welcome news for our local institutions of learning.”
“It will help ensure Brock University and Niagara College are able to continue the work of preparing young people for the fulfilling careers and jobs of today and tomorrow,” he said.
- Sean Vanderklis, Local Journalism, Niagara Falls Review
