University of Manitoba President and Vice-Chancellor David Barnard today welcomed the Manitoba government’s multi-year commitment to sustained funding for the province’s universities in Budget 2012.

“I am pleased the government has fulfilled its commitment to provide universities with a five per cent increase in its funding for the second consecutive year,” said Barnard. “These sustained investments allow the university to plan appropriately so we can maintain and build excellence at our community of learning, discovery and engagement.”

In addition to the funding increase, the Manitoba government will also allow universities to increase tuition fees at the rate of inflation.

In its 2011 budget, the Manitoba government committed to increasing its investments in universities by five per cent for three years, while enabling tuition increases consistent with the rate of inflation.

President Barnard urged the government to increase funding in research and innovation in Manitoba to help drive economic growth in the provinces.

“While governments must deal with competing priorities, increased investments in research help create the jobs and opportunity of the future,” said Barnard. “In challenging economic times, these investments are even more important and we urge the government to commit additional resources in this critical area.”