February 18, 2026

Postsecondary student unions in Ontario are protesting two aspects of the Government of Ontario’s recently announced funding model: the removal of the tuition freeze and the decision to reduce the maximum proportion of OSAP grants from 85% to 25%. While members of the system noted that the changes to the ON funding system were necessary for the foundation of the system, students and student advocacy groups said that the tuition and OSAP changes could affect affordability, increase student debt, and discourage students from going to higher ed. “We are definitely concerned about people’s ability to attend university and afford university,” said OUSA VP of Finance Omar Sayyed. Student leaders called on the government to reassess the changes or implement new supports.

Canada’s Top 100 Employers has released its top British Columbia employers for 2026 and several postsecondary institutions appeared in the list. British Columbia Institute of Technology was celebrated for its pension offerings. Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Simon Fraser University, and the University of the Fraser Valley were recognized for their maternity and parental leave offerings. Camosun College’s paid volunteering days, University of British Columbia’s Hot Lunch networking initiative, and the University of Victoria’s bike-friendly and transit offerings were each noted. Douglas College and the University of Northern British Columbia were highlighted for their wellness efforts.

Acadia University has opened its AI literacy course to the public at no cost, following the success of the course among its student population. Offered in a self-paced format, the course discusses ethical concerns surrounding AI and the basic ideas underlying large language models. “It was really coming from a place of we have something to really give that could really help people in particular in our region, and that we’re engaging with as an institution and we want to be able to provide that,” said Acadia Vice-Provost, Curriculum and Planning, Lauren Wilson Finniss. Finniss added that the university plans to continuously update the module to ensure its relevance to current AI tools.

The University of Ottawa is launching a French-language version of its MA in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies this Fall. The program explores the use of psychedelics throughout history and their applications to the fields of mental health, spirituality, and ritual practices. The program is targeted towards licensed mental health and medical professionals, clergy members and spiritual care providers, shamanic or traditional practitioners, and researchers. “The interdisciplinary approach of this program is grounded in psychological science and built upon traditional and cultural perspectives. It will be led by world-class faculty and an immersive experiential opportunity for learning,” explained UOttawa Psychology Professor Dr Monnica Williams.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has announced that it will not be continuing with its plan to relocate students currently enrolled in its Saskatoon-based Electronic Systems Engineering Technology (ESET) program to its Regina campus. Details about where the program will be delivered for current Saskatoon students have not yet been finalized. Sask Polytech ESET student Alex Loewen called the reversal a “relief,” and that he hopes alternate arrangements will preserve students’ access to program equipment and hands-on learning. The program will complete its relocation to Regina in 2027.

Confederation College will be relocating its Greenstone Campus to Geraldton through a partnership with the Superior-Greenstone District School Board. The campus will be co-located at the Geraldton Composite High School. The campus will facilitate access to postsecondary programming and will offer apprenticeship pathways, specialized workforce training, and academic upgrading and Get SET programming. With this move, Confederation will also be able to expand its programming at the campus. “This move strengthens our ability to support learners, employers, and communities now and into the future,” says Confederation President Michelle Salo.

In a recent article for Journal de Québec, Cégep de Granby faculty and staff shared some of the strategies and initiatives they used to improve student outcomes on the provincial French test. Cégep director of studies Valérie Lefebvre stated that French was identified as one of the institution’s most challenging courses, so faculty members rethought their teaching methods to identify solutions. The implementation of screening strategies, more explicit teaching practices, reflection and self-assessment exercises, and smaller class sizes were used to help students succeed. Cégep assistant director of studies Chantale Tremblay added that the screening strategies in particular were helpful with supporting male students, who were statistically less likely to ask for help.

The Council of Arviat has set aside 10,000 square metres of land at the east end of the hamlet for the forthcoming Inuit Nunangat University. The land, which is located on a waterfront site with views of Hudson Bay, will have space for the main building and living accommodations. Arviat Mayor Joe Savikataaq Jr added that the hamlet has undertaken infrastructure work, such as a major upgrade to the water supply and the creation of a new treatment plant, that will ensure the hamlet can handle the increased demand on its systems.

Several postsecondary leaders in Ontario are awaiting information about their institution’s funding allocation before they make further decisions about changes to programs, services, or other offerings. Algonquin College’s Board of Governors has postponed their consideration of a recommendation to cut 30 programs, instead planning to complete a full assessment of the programs once it has funding information. Fanshawe College and Loyalist College leaders welcomed the new funding, but noted that they expect to need to proceed with layoffs and other downsizing to ensure their long-term financial sustainability.

Providence University College’s Athletics department has launched Women’s Rugby as a Providence Pilots varsity program. Providence’s Women’s Rugby team will roll out using a phased approach: competing in the Prairie University Women’s Rugby Conference for the 2026-27 season in Rugby 7s, with plans to compete in Rugby 15s in 2027-28 as the program becomes more established. “Rugby brings together toughness, teamwork, and character – qualities that align closely with who we are as Pilots,” said Providence Director of Athletics Joel Coursey.