Good morning! This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning colleges, universities, campuses, research initiatives and funding, and the tri-council (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) agencies. Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Looking to elevate your organization's presence or streamline your approach to government relations with more data-driven solutions? Queen Street Analytics is here to help you achieve your goals: faster, smarter, and more effectively. Let's start the conversation. Reach us at contact@queenstreetanalytics.com to learn how we can support your success.

Start Date: 2025-05-04
End Date: 2025-05-10

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Agriculture Student Scholarships Support Saskatchewan Post-secondary Entrants

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada announced the recipients of the Agriculture Student Scholarship in Saskatchewan on May 5. Abbey Norek received the $6,000 grand prize for a video on bridging urban-rural divides in agriculture education, while three runners-up were each awarded $3,000. All recipients plan to pursue Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degrees at the University of Saskatchewan this fall. The scholarship program draws attention to initiatives in experiential learning and advocacy within agricultural education.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

HMCS Margaret Brooke Returns From Antarctic Mission Supporting Canadian Scientific Research

On May 9, National Defence announced the return of HMCS Margaret Brooke following Operation PROJECTION, marking the first Royal Canadian Navy vessel deployment to Antarctica. The vessel supported Canada’s inaugural all-Canadian scientific research expedition in the region. The crew facilitated research activities related to climate science, with findings expected to inform understanding of environmental impacts. The operation also included port visits and collaborations with partners across South America and the Caribbean.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

New Info-Tech Research Report: AI Enrollment Declines and IT Leadership Shape Sector Priorities

A new Info-Tech Research Group report, featured on May 9, identifies declining enrollment in artificial intelligence programs and challenges in IT leadership as central to the education sector’s 2025 priorities. The findings point to shifting demand for STEM skills and evolving administrative strategies in post-secondary institutions. The report also details sector-wide adjustments in response to workforce and technology trends.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.theglobeandmail.com

Quebec Universities Face $200 Million Shortfall Linked to Drop in International Students

Quebec universities are managing a projected $200 million budget shortfall this year, attributed to a sharp decline in international student enrollment, according to a CBC report dated May 8. The enrollment drop is affecting institutional budgets and staffing, with universities citing reduced tuition revenues and program suspensions. The development is prompting reviews of recruitment and program delivery strategies.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

Colleges and Universities in Northeastern Ontario Suspend Programs Amid International Enrollment Drop

Several institutions in northeastern Ontario have suspended programs as international student numbers fall, leading to staff reductions and budgetary pressures.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

Research Gaps in Manitoba Prompt Calls for Increased Support

Stakeholders in Manitoba’s research community are voicing concerns over funding limitations, pointing to unmet needs and gaps in research infrastructure.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

University of Manitoba President Advocates for Expanded Provincial Research Funding

The president of the University of Manitoba called for higher provincial investment in research, noting the importance of stable funding for institutional competitiveness.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.ctvnews.ca

P.E.I. Initiates Review of Education Authorities Following Student Safety Concerns

Prince Edward Island has launched a review of its education authorities after reports of serious student safety issues, with implications for governance and oversight.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.ctvnews.ca

Europe Ramps Up Recruitment of Scientists After U.S. Funding Freeze

European institutions are seeking to attract North American scientists and researchers following the suspension of U.S. research funding, creating new international mobility opportunities.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.theglobeandmail.com

New SMU Education Programs Aim to Address Teacher Shortages in Nova Scotia

Saint Mary’s University in Nova Scotia is launching accelerated Bachelor of Education programs to meet rising demand for qualified teachers.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

Provincial Announcements

Ontario Expands Skills Development Fund by $1 Billion

Ontario is investing nearly $1 billion in its Skills Development Fund over three years, targeting training and reskilling for workers affected by tariffs and economic changes.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Ontario Introduces Primary Care Act, 2025 With Teaching Clinic Investments

The Ontario government has tabled the Primary Care Act, 2025, and is allocating up to $300 million to establish 17 new and expanded primary care teaching clinics in partnership with several universities.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Premier Ford Attends Skills Ontario Competition

Premier Doug Ford and provincial ministers attended the Skills Ontario Competition on May 6, highlighting government support for skilled trades and training initiatives.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Sudbury Long-Term Care Expansion to Include Onsite Training for Students

Ontario broke ground on a long-term care home expansion in Sudbury, which will feature a 3,000 sq. ft. onsite training facility for local college and university placement students.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Ontario Ministers Announce Media Availability on Health and Education Portfolios

Ontario ministers, including those for Health, Finance, and Colleges and Universities, held a press conference on May 7 to address developments in health and education sectors.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

MP Kevin Vuong Calls for Ministerial Action on Campus Safety at Toronto Metropolitan University

On May 7, MP Kevin Vuong referenced Ontario’s Bill 166 and urged Minister Nolan Quinn to issue a directive to Toronto Metropolitan University regarding campus safety concerns.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Maninder Sidhu Announces Launch of Canada Summer Jobs for Youth

MP Maninder Sidhu announced on May 8 that applications for thousands of summer jobs under the Canada Summer Jobs program are now open, inviting youth to apply.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Anita Anand Congratulates Sheridan College Contenders and Medalists

MP Anita Anand recognized Sheridan College students’ achievements and contributions to the Oakville community in a May 8 statement.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Laila Goodridge Attends Keyano College Convocation

MP Laila Goodridge participated in Keyano College’s convocation on May 8, congratulating graduates, including Elder Lorraine Albert.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Kevin Vuong Comments on Student Safety and Minority Protection on Campuses

MP Kevin Vuong shared his views on May 7 regarding the treatment of minorities and student safety issues on Canadian campuses.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Stan Kutcher Raises Concerns Over Federal Research Funding

Senator Stan Kutcher stated on May 7 that calls for increased research funding, more fellowships, and expanded Canada Research Chairs have not yet been addressed.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

Senator Marc Gold Welcomes Post-secondary Students for Model Senate on Parliament Hill

Senator Marc Gold acknowledged the participation of students from across Canada in the Model Senate event on May 9.

Sources: Social Media: x.com