Canada Student Grant advocacy
The federal investments in Canada Student Grants (CSG) are set to decrease for the next academic year, powering advocacy from the St. Thomas University Students’ Union (STUSU) and the Canadian Association of Student Associations (CASA).
CSG is a grant for full-time students in financial need. For the 2020-21 academic year, the federal government expanded CSG’s maximum from $6,000 to $3,000, but this will expire in July.
Through its advocacy campaign #HalfYourCSG, CASA is arguing the maximum should be kept at $6,000 due to “sharp increases in the cost of food, rent and tuition across Canada.”
Julia Evans, STUSU’s vice president of education, said the union is supporting the campaign on social media. The campaign, which is in its first phase, collects students’ opinions about CSG and how this decision will impact their post-secondary education.
“You can actually tell your story,” she said. “How would this affect you if Canada Student grants were to decrease?”
Preparations for STUSU general election
The St. Thomas University Students’ Union began collecting nominations for its spring general election on Feb. 24.
Chloe York, STUSU’s at-large representative, said the union re-scheduled an event to March 1 in James Dunn Hall so students who are interested in running can get more information on the process.
“We look forward to chatting with students who may be interested in getting involved to answer any questions that they have,” she said.
Candidates must register themselves and their desired position through the nomination form on STU’s website.
The nomination period closes on March 3. After that, the campaign period will last from March 6 to 13, and the elections will start on March 14.
