As a result of program cuts and staff reallocations at the University College of the North (UCN), staff have begun circulating a petition calling on President Konrad Jonasson to convene a series of regional meetings with employees to discuss the long-term vision for UCN.

Recently, UCN announced that it would be suspending six programs in Thompson and four offered in The Pas, with five of the 10 being one-year certificate programs and the other two-year programs. The program cuts come amidst other “vacancy management” initiatives being undertaken by senior administration.

“It is hoped that President Jonasson will see the wisdom of bringing staff together to discuss where UCN is going, and what expertise and ideas staff can bring forward in helping the institution meet its current challenges,” said MGEU President Michelle Gawronsky. “Right now, there is a feeling of uncertainty at UCN. Everyone from staff to students to community leaders to business owners is left wondering what’s next for this important Northern Manitoba institution.”

Programs no longer being offered in Thompson beginning in the fall of 2013 include civil/CAD technology, computerized business applications and preparation for technology, which are all one-year courses, as well as two-year programs in office administration, computer systems technology and electrical/electronic technology. Suspended programs in The Pas include health transition and computerized office skills, which are both two-year courses, as well as one-year certificate computer programmer/analyst and gaming development programs.

“Unfortunately the programs being cut target students whose skills and knowledge will contribute to the success of companies in this region that are relied upon for jobs and economic growth,” Gawronsky said. “Those include companies like Vale, MTS, and Manitoba Hydro. Thinning the pool of available skilled workers will affect the economy in Northern Manitoba, and in Aboriginal communities.”

The MGEU has written to UCN President Konrad Jonasson to officially request the regional meetings, and has sent correspondence to the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, as well as to Co-Chairs of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council. In addition, a meeting is being scheduled with Advanced Education Minister Erin Selby to discuss the concerns of MGEU members at UCN.

“Before taking the dramatic step of cutting programs, which will be damaging to the institution’s reputation and credibility in this region, we think comprehensive, transparent dialogue about alternatives now and in the future is necessary,” said Gawronsky. “Those who work at UCN have a perspective, based on experience and expertise, about what can be done to build this institution and we should give them a voice.”

The petition has already garnered much interest and participation. A hard copy of the petition is being circulated at both The Pas and Thompson campuses of UCN. If staff at other regional UCN locations want to sign the petition, they should contact the MGEU Resource Centre for details.