UCalgary navigating 'mixed news' budget that sees directed investments in talent development paired with further reductions

In the context of a much-improved fiscal situation, the Feb. 24 provincial budget provided targeted funding to the University of Calgary — but for the fourth consecutive year reduced operating funding — placing the university in the difficult position of finding ways to offset an additional $20.7 million (5.2 per cent) cut. Since 2019, the University of Calgary operating budget has been reduced 22 per cent.

“We welcome the targeted investment in new talent development — these funds will help UCalgary produce talent in high-demand employment sectors and drive the economy," says Dr. Ed McCauley, president and vice-chancellor.

"But over the long term, UCalgary needs ongoing funding to support teaching, learning and improving the world around us. Great societies are anchored by great research universities. They are engines for everything from employment to art to community to discovery.

An investment in higher education is an investment in our future.

As part of the budget, the Province of Alberta announced investments in technology, skills training and veterinary medicine that will benefit learners and the community.

Funding the expansion of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine allows the university to meet the growing labour market demand for one of the top-ranked programs in the world. Financial support for advanced technologies will help UCalgary to drive innovation around quantum science.

“Meeting the needs of our community through the expansion of the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine will support the growth of a major economic sector of our province,” says McCauley.

New, targeted skills funding has yet to be allocated but provides an opportunity for the University of Calgary to expand access to in-demand programs that grow Alberta’s economy.

University of Calgary leadership will now evaluate the impact of today’s announcement and work with the Ministry of Advanced Education and the University’s Board of Governors on development of a 2022-23 annual budget and proposals to access new funding envelopes.