Today, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars and colleagues across Canada will be staging a nation-wide Support Our Science walk out to advocate for increased federal support and funding through awards and grants. Simon Fraser University supports the peaceful protest of those taking part in this action, as well as the recognition that more federal funding is required to support learning and research across the post-secondary sector.

As anyone involved in university life can tell you, graduate students and postdoctoral scholars play an integral role in advancing learning and research on our campuses. We recognize the increasing cost pressures students are facing with inflation, the rising costs of living and limitations in grant funding. SFU continues to look for opportunities to address student affordability challenges in partnership with student groups and our government partners. 

SFU Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies also works closely with the Graduate Student Society and SFU Advancement and Alumni Engagement to secure additional support and funding opportunities specific to graduate students. This work has resulted in the creation of several new graduate entrance awards. In 2022, more than $2.6 million was raised to support graduate students, and there were 421 grad students who received support.

Creating a university-wide minimum funding level for research graduate students is also a priority project in SFU’s 2023-2028 Strategic Research Plan. 

We recognize that these supports are not enough, and are eager to partner with our federal government on future solutions.

That’s why we’re supporting those taking part in today’s walk out and are encouraging those who support this cause to join them this morning at 10 a.m. at Convocation Mall. 

For more information about the campaign and how to get involved, please visit the Support Our Science website.