Editorial - 24-3

When the health of university-based research is examined, it's important to consider the whole picture and not just the sponsored research funding that institutions compete for. Sources of public funds and access to higher learning are also key components of the post-secondary funding scenario that have been the focus of recent reports and initiatives.

In Ontario, a new report supports the Canadian approach of public funding as the leading source of university revenues. It examines the impact of the economic downturn on the province's universities and argues that they've fared far better than their US counterparts where endowments and private sector support play a much larger role (see page 6). While the recession has decimated the funding base of many US institutions, it has had a negligible impact on Ontario universities. The report says that only 2% of university revenue are affected by market forces.

In Quebec, the politically explosive issue of post secondary tuition rates has returned to the fore. A group of Quebec citizens led by former premier Lucien Bouchard has called for the province's astoundingly low tuition fees to be raised. The group's call was echoed by a new report from government-appointed advisory group, which recommended they be raised from the current level of less than $2,000 to the Canadian average of $5,350.

While operating funds and tuition fees don't directly impact on research, a healthy revenue stream from both would give institutions more flexibility in how they support their research enterprise. A holistic approach is essential to ensure its future health.