Access to safe and affordable housing has emerged as a pressing and challenging issue across Canada. Housing prices, inflationary pressures, rental costs and dwindling supply are impacting individuals across the demographic spectrum.

Post-secondary education institutions are finding themselves in the crosshairs of this issue, as generalizations have been made about the impact of international students on the housing crisis. This has given rise to the prospect of policies that could limit opportunities for international student education and stem an influx of talent necessary to meet projected labour shortages arising from demographic shifts.

However, just as the trigger of the housing crisis cannot be attributed to a single cause, nor can the response be myopic in focus. We must work in partnership across all levels of government and between both the public and private sectors to understand the issue and take meaningful steps to address it.

MacEwan University stands as a significant contributor to downtown Edmonton, attracting an average of 20,000 people to the core every day during its Fall and Winter terms. We take great pride in our place in O-day’min, our ward in the city, and our role in adding to the vibrancy and safety of the downtown area. With plans to increase our student population to 30,000 by 2030, the issue of safe and accessible housing for our students is paramount.

Currently, students make up 10 per cent of Edmonton’s population. These students represent the next generation of skilled talent, leaders and entrepreneurs who will continue to drive our city and province forward.

Of concern is that 65 per cent of students indicate that access to housing is an important factor in considering whether to pursue post-secondary education. If affordable housing is not available, those students will take their talents, ideas and ambitions elsewhere. This is a situation we are seeing occur in other jurisdictions with tight housing markets.

Addressing accessible housing can be catalyst for convergence; it affords the opportunity to bring people together, as was done to achieve greater access to child-care services. A concerted focus on building meaningful partnerships to address the issue is essential to foster economic growth, promote diversity and nurture a robust talent pipeline from our universities, colleges and polytechnics. 

MacEwan’s growth target to meet increasing demand – as well as Edmonton’s economic future – necessitates stronger partnerships between governments, business, developers and the local community to address the housing crisis.

MacEwan University actively seeks to collaborate on new and creative ways of ensuring accessible housing for all. We are aware that the City of Edmonton is focused on increasing densification across the city with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity and collaboration. We want to be an active partner in discussions and planning to address this issue, not just for our students, but for all citizens challenged by a lack of access to affordable and safe places to live.

We welcome opportunities to explore housing solutions and collaborations with industry as we share a willingness to explore new infrastructure projects, conversions of office space to housing and citywide residence renovations. 

MacEwan University's students represent a foundation of the city's future economic prosperity and they are a vital supply of talent. As someone familiar with the complexities of many government departments, including Treasury Board and Finance, I understand that meaningful change cannot be achieved overnight. Economic recovery and improved housing accessibility require a sustained commitment to strong policies, thoughtful planning and collaborative efforts among all orders of government, businesses, industries and other key stakeholders. The results may take years to materialize, but they are crucial for the city's long-term success - and the time to start is now. MacEwan is committed to supporting this work as a city builder and key partner in Edmonton’s growth and sustainability.

Dr. Annette Trimbee
President & Vice-Chancellor
MacEwan University