Ontario Premier Doug Ford has defended his government's recent changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), which have shifted the system to be more loan-based and have resulted in an increase in tuition fees. 'It's not a freebie anymore,' he declared, emphasizing that taxpayer money is a limited resource and that students should not assume automatic financial support for their education. He spoke to reporters amidst ongoing protests organized by the Ontario Liberal Party and the NDP, who have voiced strong opposition to the financial restructuring of student assistance.

The changes, which will allow colleges and universities to raise tuition fees by two percent annually, have sparked frustration among students and opposition parties. Activists have rallied at the legislature, bringing students to voice their grievances and concerns about the potential burden of a more significant loan-based system. Ford acknowledged receiving mixed feedback from students, ranging from harsh criticism to more civil discussions, but he maintained that the government's priorities lie in ensuring fiscal responsibility rather than providing blanket support.

As the province moves forward with these changes, the implications for students and the accessibility of higher education are significant. Critics argue that the shift to a predominantly loan-based system could deter low-income students or those from marginalized communities from pursuing post-secondary education. The ongoing tensions between the government and opposition highlight a broader discussion about the role of student financial support and the balance between public funding and personal responsibility in education.