Selkirk College in Castlegar, and at the other campuses, participated in a national Day of Action on Feb. 1.
“We had seven events throughout Selkirk College,” said organizer Nedine Scott from the student’s association. “We had events in Nakusp, Kalso, the three campuses in Nelson, Castlegar, and Grand Forks.”
The event started with a student rally where the students learned what the day was about. The college had representatives from the local CUPW attend.
“We had a good turnout of students,” she said. “We also had a lot of students come through throughout the day as well. We had a free Mac ‘n Cheese lunch – very symbolic of the student experience. We also had petitions and information set up.”
The protest was part of a national campaign with over half a million students throughout the country raising awareness and calling for action over rising tuition fees, increased student debt, and a call for increased funding to post-secondary schools.
“it was very well received,” said Scott. “Students are upset to see their tuition fees continue to rise and their debt continue to rise as well. The average student, upon graduation, will have over $27,000 in debt. That affects student on all levels. They’re not only seeing rising tuition fees, but everything else from book costs, housing, food, travel. It all adds up.”
