Academics condemn Nova Scotia bill as threat to autonomy

New legislation affecting post-secondary institutions in Nova Scotia drew the ire of members of the Canadian Association of University Teachers at a meeting this weekend in Ottawa, writes Vernon Ramesar for CBC News.

An act Respecting Advanced Education and Research received royal assent on 26 March. The bill came after a report from the auditor general called for more transparency and accountability at universities. A news release from the province said it was designed to “strengthen post-secondary institution financial accountability, sustainability and alignment with government priorities”.

The legislation allows the province to restructure universities, appoint up to 50% of their boards, and align academic research with government priorities. Delegates at the meeting in Ottawa voted unanimously to condemn the bill, citing concerns that the legislation could serve as a model for similar efforts in other provinces. Peter McInnis, the association’s president, said from Ottawa that condemnation of the bill was an unusual step for the association, but not without precedent. He said members of the association see the new bill as an encroachment on academic freedom.
Full report on the CBC News site