The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Paul Dinn, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development:

Speaker, I rise today to congratulate all post-secondary graduates this year in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year, approximately 3,000 students are graduating from Memorial University at campuses in St. John’s, Corner Brook and Labrador.

At College of the North Atlantic, close to 2,000 people are graduating this year from 17 campuses throughout the province.

As well, over 1,300 students are graduating from private training institutions such as Keyin College and Academy Canada.

Speaker, we recognize the importance of investing in post-secondary education. That is why Budget 2026 includes significant post-secondary investments, and a tuition freeze at Memorial University and College of North Atlantic to help keep education accessible.

Work will begin this year on a new graduate tuition refund program, so graduates who stay, work and live in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive a tuition refund.

Speaker, we continue to work with our institutions and partners to strengthen opportunities for learners throughout our province.

To the supporters of our students, thank you for your encouragement of our graduates.

To all graduates, congratulations on this accomplishment!  Today, we celebrate your hard work and the potential you bring to Newfoundland and Labrador.

On behalf of all members, I wish graduates the best of luck and every success.

Thank you.