Professors at Memorial University say increasing tuition will result in a less diverse and less vibrant university.

The provincial government is phasing out its operating grant to MUN over the next five years, so the university responded by imposing a series of tuition hikes over a period of four years beginning in the fall of 2022.

Josh Lepawsky, President-Elect of the Faculty Association at Memorial, was saddened and disappointed to see the tuition freeze lifted.

The provincial government expanded the grants and loans programs to ease the pain of the higher fees, but he says eligibility requirements usually mean that some students will not be in a position to avail of the supports.

Lepawsky says government has been cutting the operating grant since 2015, resulting in deferred maintenance with noticeable outcomes in the condition of the infrastructure.