NSCC to waive tuition for former youth-in-care
Posted Jan 5, 2021 05:21:52 PM.
Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) will be waiving tuition for those who have spent time in foster care.
The Post-Care Free Tuition Program will cover up to 100% of tuition and fees.
NSCC president Don Bureaux said the college is committed to building accessibility and inclusion.
“By eliminating barriers to education in this way, we’re opening up a world of possibilities and ensuring that all Nova Scotians have the opportunity to move successfully into training and the workforce,” he said in a news release.
Those eligible must have been in the care of the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services — including Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services of Nova Scotia — or have accessed Youth Services for a minimum of one year, which can be cumulative.
The Post-Care Free Tuition Program is inspired by the work of Jane Kovarikova, PhD Candidate and founder of the Child Welfare Political Action Committee Canada.
“I know firsthand how transformative post-secondary education can be for someone raised in care,” says Kovarikova, who entered foster care at the age of 6.
“It was a community college that made it possible for me to start my academic journey. I commend NSCC on its work to broaden these opportunities for Nova Scotians.”
NSCC becomes the first college in Atlantic Canada to waive tuition fees for students with in care experiences
In November, Mount Saint Vincent University became the first university in Atlantic Canada to launch a tuition waiver program specifically for former youth in care.
