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York criticized for top-down approach to program suspensions

(February 20, 2025) – The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) is calling on York University to reverse plans to suspend enrolments in 20 academic programs at its Glendon and Keele campuses.

The administration’s decision was made without consulting the York University Faculty Association (YUFA) and will weaken the university’s educational mission and its commitment to critical thinking, equity and social justice.

“York’s failure to consult with faculty about program suspensions raises serious concerns about the administration’s commitment to educational integrity and its academic staff,” said CAUT executive director David Robinson. “The administration has a responsibility to uphold principles of openness, transparency and the duty to consult.”

Robinson also urged the provincial government to ensure universities and colleges are properly funded.

“Ontario’s universities and colleges have the lowest level of funding per student of any province,” Robinson said. “Institutions are now reeling from the drop in international student enrolments because of caps on visas. It’s a perfect storm and governments at all levels need to work together to find a solution.”