The Call for Change: Prioritizing Education in Manitoba’s Fall Election

Education is the foundation of a prosperous society, and teachers play a vital role in shaping future generations. In Manitoba, however, teachers have long endured a contentious relationship with the Conservative Party, leading to a disconnect between the government and educators.

Today the Manitoba government has announced measures to improve student support. Advanced Education and Training Minister Sarah Guillemard declared an increase in the maximum benefit of the Manitoba Student Loan, from $140 to $200 per week of study, effective August 1. This move aims to reduce financial obstacles and allow more students to access higher education.

Guillemard has said the government has invested an additional $1.4 million in the Manitoba Bursary Fund to support eligible students. The fund will provide non-repayable financial assistance to lower-income students, with an upfront grant of up to $2,000 for eligible applicants and an additional $1,500 top-up for eligible lower-income Indigenous students.

According to MLA and NDP Critic for Advanced Education and Training, Jaimie Moses, the government has failed to provide timely financial aid, resulting in months-long waiting periods. Tuition fees for the average University of Manitoba student have increased by more than 25% since 2016, making higher education less accessible for many. The government’s decision to raise taxes on renters and cut health care coverage for international students has further exacerbated the affordability crisis students face.

One significant issue that Manitoba teachers have to endure under the Conservative Party is the financial burden placed upon them. Teachers have been forced to purchase classroom supplies out of their own pockets, as adequate funding for educational resources has been lacking. This unfairly burdens teachers, affecting their ability to provide the best possible education for their students.

Another challenge faced by Manitoba teachers is the issue of large classroom sizes which has been an issue of concern voiced by The Manitoba Teacher’s Society. Insufficient investment in education has resulted in overcrowded classrooms, making it difficult for teachers to provide individual attention and personalized instruction. Additionally, substitute teachers are scarce, causing disruptions in the learning process when teachers are absent. Furthermore, long waiting lists for clinical support have left students without the necessary assistance they require.

In a recent incident, Candice Bergen, the former Conservative MP and current Co-Chair for the Manitoba PCs, made highly concerning remarks about the youth and children of Manitoba. She referred to them as “entitled” and accused schools and universities of “brainwashing” them. These comments by Bergen have only added fuel to the fire and intensified the strained relationship between the Conservative Party and educators in Manitoba. Such accusations disregard the professionalism and expertise of educators, creating an atmosphere of mistrust and undermining their ability to deliver a well-rounded education.

The mistreatment of Manitoba’s educators and the challenges students face highlight the urgent need for change. As the October elections approach, Manitobans must prioritize education and consider their choices’ impact on their province’s future. It is crucial to elect representatives who understand the importance of a well-funded education system, adequately support teachers, and prioritize the needs of students. As the province heads into the upcoming elections, Manitobans need to prioritize education and elect representatives who will champion the cause of teachers, prioritize student needs, and invest in the future of Manitoba’s education system.