Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) played host to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities on January 24 when Minister Glen Murray visited the college and university’s joint Oshawa campus to draw attention to the new 30% Off Ontario Tuition Grant announced on January 5.

The grant, which is designed to make post-secondary education more affordable and attainable to students while strengthening the province`s workforce, means that eligible university or college degree students will receive $800 for this semester and college diploma and certificate students will receive $365.

As of September 2012 the grant will apply to the full academic year with students in a university or college degree program saving $1,600 and students in college diploma and certificate programs saving $730.

“We are keeping our promise to make a real difference in the cost of tuition for undergraduate students and their families. This grant means that eligible students will enjoy the lowest tuition costs in the past 10 years,” said Murray. “We are being fiscally responsible while at the same time making a profound difference for the students and families who need the financial assistance.”

The event was held in the Campus Library with staff and students from Durham College and UOIT in attendance in addition to Don Lovisa, president, Durham College; Dr. Tim McTiernan, president, UOIT; Joe Dickson, MPP (Ajax-Pickering); and Amy LaRue, president, Student Association who offered their perspectives on the grant and the provincial government’s aim to make post-secondary education more affordable for students.

“We are very aware that there can sometimes be significant financial barriers that students must overcome in order to pursue a post-secondary education,” said Lovisa. “Initiatives such as the new Ontario Tuition Grant can play a key role in helping to offset those costs and increase the number of students who have access to Durham College.”

More than 300,000 students are eligible to receive the grant this year with more than 700 Durham College students already registered. Interested students should visit the Office of the Premier`s website for more information.