March 24th, 2026

Today’s provincial budget outlines major investments in healthcare, affordability, and workforce development, but once again, post‑secondary students were largely left out. Students across Manitoba are facing rising costs and growing barriers to completing their education, yet this budget still does not deliver the support measures they urgently need.

Affordability remains one of the biggest challenges students face, yet today’s budget offers little relief for students. While efforts to lower grocery prices and expand on-campus childcare are important, there is still no new support for student housing, tuition relief, or expansion of non‑repayable financial aid. Without meaningful affordability measures, students will continue to struggle.

UMSU supports the province’s commitment to strengthening healthcare. However, the government has still not restored provincial health coverage for international students, despite this being outlined in the Minister of Advanced Education’s mandate letter in 2023. International students contribute enormously to Manitoba’s economy and campus communities. Leaving them without public healthcare puts them at risk while undermining Manitoba’s goals around student retention, especially in critical sectors like healthcare.

 

Manitoba’s investment in healthcare, skills, and apprenticeship training will help prepare students to enter the province’s workforce, but the budget overlooks the urgent need for student employment across all fields of study. With youth unemployment remaining at an all-time high, students need more paid work‑integrated learning opportunities such as co‑ops and internships to gain experience and transition into meaningful careers in Manitoba. Without dedicated investment in student jobs, the province risks losing young talent and weakening its long‑term workforce goals.

 

As Manitoba works to strengthen healthcare, grow the economy, and build a resilient workforce, post‑secondary students must be part of that vision. A strong partnership between the provincial government and students is essential to ensuring Manitoba’s future workforce is supported, valued, and able to thrive.

 

With appreciation, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union