Student advocates outraged as MUN uses money set for tuition reduction elsewhere

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/mun-tuition-reduction-grant-pause-1.7539319

Memorial University says it will continue increasing the cost of tuition despite budget cuts being put on hold — which two student advocates say shows a continued lack of financial responsibility.

Rana Abuidris, the executive director of campaigns for MUN's student union, says the decision comes as students face heavy financial anxiety.

"Students are skipping meals. I know students are currently working three jobs to be able to afford the tuition costs right now," Abuidris told CBC Radio's On the Go. 

Nicolas Keough, chair of the Canadian Federation of Students in Newfoundland and Labrador, said he had hoped the money would be used for its intended purpose.

"The grant that is made to offset tuition, the money should be going toward that," he said.

"This is not 'The money had to come from somewhere.' … That's what the operating grant is for."