Take a library survey, enter to win a prize
The Camosun College library has a brief survey open until April 14; after filling out the survey, students can sign up to be entered into a draw for the chance to win a gift card to the college bookstore. Students can access the survey by going online or requesting a paper copy at the library. Check it out at camosun.ca/news/have-your-say-library.
Budget 2023 increases student grants
The federal government has released Budget 2023, which includes an $814-million dollar investment into the Canada Student Grant Program. Eligible students will be able to receive up to $4,200 dollars in non-repayable student aid as of August 1, 2023. Before the COVID pandemic, grants were topped at $3,000 dollars; during the pandemic, the government increased the maximum to $6,000, but that relief measure was to expire in August. Budget 2023 also raised the interest-free student-loan limit from $210 to $300 per week of study; put $197.7 million into extending the Student Work Placement Program in 2024-2025; put $108.6 million over three years to expand the College and Community Innovation Program; and waived the requirement for students over 22 to go through credit screening to qualify for federal loans and grants.
100 smoke-free campuses in Canada, but Camosun’s not one of them
The Canadian Cancer Society recently released a report saying that 100 college and university campuses in Canada are now 100 percent smoke-free; 160 campuses still allow for smoking in some capacity, including Camosun College’s campuses. A smoke-free policy would eliminate smoke pits, and the smoking of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cannabis, and hookahs anywhere on campus. The Canadian Cancer Society aims to discourage the use of nicotine in younger generations, as well as protect other students from second-hand smoke on campuses.
Science fair needs volunteers
Science Rendezvous is looking for science lovers to volunteer for a science festival taking place on May 13 at Camosun’s Interurban campus and UVic. Anyone can volunteer to help, including undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, faculty, and members of the community. For more information, visit uvic.ca/science/donors/outreach/scirenyyj/index.php.
Skilled workers get visa extension
Students with a recently expired or expiring post-graduation work permit (PGWP) are now eligible for an 18-month visa extension. This announcement comes in the wake of labour shortages and challenges with worker retention in Canada. The opportunity for an extension would allow PGWP visa holders the ability to gain further work experience while contributing to the Canadian economy.
New bylaw to reduce single-use item waste
A new bylaw in Victoria encouraging the reduction of single-use items within businesses and non-profit organizations is moving forward. The new bylaw allows for the distribution of disposable utensils, stir sticks, and straws only when requested; if food and drink are being consumed on site, customers will be given reusable dishware.