British Columbia has taken an important step to secure the future of education and the province’s economic growth. With the Province reviews public post-secondary system announcement, B.C. has launched a major independent review to ensure its public post-secondary institutions remain strong, sustainable and aligned with long-term labour needs.

This move arrives at a crucial moment. Public colleges and universities in B.C. are experiencing rising financial pressures caused by global inflation, reduced domestic enrolment and major federal reductions to study permits for international students. As Canada’s economy expands and British Columbia continues to welcome newcomers, a strong, stable post-secondary system is essential for preparing the skilled workforce of tomorrow.

The new review aims to address these challenges with a fresh, forward-looking approach that supports students, educators and communities across the province.

Why the Province Reviews Public Post-Secondary System Now

British Columbia plays a central role in Canada’s growth. Its technology sector, health care system, construction industry and natural resources all depend on a steady supply of well-trained professionals. But several factors have pushed institutions into a difficult financial position. These include:

 • reduced study permit approvals for international students
 • rising global inflation
 • increasing operational costs
 • declining enrolment among domestic learners

These pressures have created growing gaps between revenue and expenses. The province has recognised that immediate action is needed to protect quality education and ensure students continue to have access to programs that support current and future labour shortages.

Key Areas the Review Will Focus On

The independent review has been designed with a holistic lens to strengthen the sector as a whole. It will explore three core areas that shape the future of post-secondary education in B.C.

1. Governance and Operations

The review will examine how institutions are currently structured, with the goal of identifying ways to:

•  streamline administrative functions 
• Reduce duplication
•  Improve how services are delivered
•  Support long-term efficiency

The goal is a more cohesive, cost-effective system that maintains accessibility for learners in all regions of the province.

2. Program Delivery

British Columbia wants to ensure that graduates are prepared for the real demands of the job market. This part of the review will assess:

• How programs are designed
•  whether they match labour market needs
•  opportunities to deliver training more efficiently
•  areas where institutions can collaborate

This will support the province’s goal of building a skilled workforce that strengthens Canada’s economic growth.

3. Financial Sustainability

This is one of the most urgent areas. The review will look at ways to stabilise institutions in the short term while building a strong foundation for long-term financial health. The goal is simple: ensure B.C.’s post-secondary system remains affordable, accessible and resilient for decades.

Who Is Leading the Review

The work will be led by Don Avison, KC, a respected former B.C. deputy minister and former board chair of Emily Carr University of Art and Design. His report, expected by March 15, 2026, will guide the government’s next steps in keeping B.C.’s post-secondary system strong, relevant and aligned with future labour needs. The province has emphasised that the review will include perspectives from:

•  students
•  staff and educators
•  institutional leaders
•  First Nations and Indigenous partners

This focus ensures the recommendations reflect the real needs of the people who depend on the system every day.

What This Means for Students and Newcomers in Canada

Post-secondary institutions do more than educate. They prepare skilled workers, support regional economies and help thousands of newcomers build their futures in Canada. This review will help ensure that:

•  Students continue to access high-quality programs
•  Local communities benefit from strong institutions
•  B.C. remains an attractive destination for skilled immigrants
•  Programs stay aligned with labour shortages in health care, trades, technology and more

For international students planning to study in Canada, a stronger and more stable system means more reliable pathways to education, work experience and permanent residence.

A Strong Future for Post-Secondary Education in Canada

With the Province reviews public post-secondary system announcement, British Columbia is taking action to protect the quality and sustainability of its education system. This review supports long-term growth, prepares the workforce of the future and strengthens Canada’s position as a global leader in education. As the province shapes a new path forward, students, workers and communities can look ahead with confidence. Canada’s strong and resilient education system plays a central role in shaping a prosperous future, and this initiative helps secure that goal.

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