Fanshawe College could be at risk of more cuts to programs and jobs, its president said Thursday.
In an interview the day after a pre-budget meeting with Ontario government, Peter Devlin called for community support in advocating for the college.
“Fanshawe is absolutely central to the foundation of the region and our communities,” he said “We provide the talent that drives the region.”
Colleges Ontario has called for increased funding during the first few weeks of 2026, as many colleges have been saying they need extra cash to avoid more cuts.
Ontario colleges have been in financial crisis, sparked by a federal cap in international students who pay about four times what domestic students pay in tuition. Fanshawe College has already cut 40 programs and 400 jobs in the past year, and the hope is that the funding will eliminate the structural deficit.
Devlin noted that Ontario’s per student funding is 44% below the Canadian average, and no increased support would mean a structural deficit of $5,200 per domestic student.
Devlin’s message to students and staff? Speak up to the provincial officials.
“Be confident of the contribution that Fanshawe and the other 23 colleges across the province make. Get your voice out there.”
The potential cuts are also raising concern in other areas of the city. Chief Operating Officer of the London Chamber of Commerce Kristen Duever, said the college is integral to London’s workforce.
“Well, it’s very concerning. We have a lot of industries right now where there are skills gaps. Bringing in skilled workers is one way to fill those gaps, but we need to train those people here at home as well so that we have a regular funnel.”
