1. End political interference in campus decision-making
Institutions and their unions understand local needs better than politicians. Bargaining mandates should be set openly at the table, not in government offices. Conditions in Olds or Lethbridge differ vastly from those in Edmonton.
2. Invest in rural institutions
Colleges and polytechnics in smaller centres are vital to local economies, Indigenous communities, and rural entrepreneurs. They deserve stable funding as the backbone of rural education and an essential public service.
3. Restore research competitiveness
Albertas researchers are world-class, but cuts and political tests for research grants have weakened their ability to compete nationally. We need stable, discipline-spanning research funding, free from ideological interference.
4. End the funding roller-coaster
Performance-based funding that shifts annually prevents responsible planning. Institutions need steady, predictable operating grants to remain competitive.
University boards have been too quiet in the face of poor management and political interference. Better training, clear governance standards, and reduced political control will help boards protect their institutions.
6. Fund a broad skill base
Yes, we need workers for high-demand jobs. But employers also want graduates skilled in critical thinking, teamwork, and complex problem-solving. AIs disruption of coding jobs shows why we must invest across all disciplines from agriculture to English.
The damage of the past six years is immense, but not irreversible. With stable funding, local decision-making, and respect for both academic and regional needs, Alberta can restore its post-secondary system to the national leadership position it once held. The Mintz panel still has time to make that happen. Albertans will be watching.
Lee Easton is president of the Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations (CAFA).
Shauna MacDonald is president of the Alberta Colleges and Institutes Faculties Association.
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