HALIFAX — A group representing Nova Scotia’s university teachers says it’s concerned the government is taking more control over which academic programs get funded. Legislation passed last year links university funding decisions to the government’s social and economic priorities. Universities are currently reviewing all their courses and programs and could face millions of dollars in funding holdbacks if they don’t submit their findings to the province by this fall. The Association of Nova Scotia University Teachers says decisions over programs used to be conducted entirely by the universities themselves. Association president Mathew Reichertz says he’s worried the province will use the reviews to axe or consolidate programs such as arts, English and philosophy. The province says it’s important to align university programs with student demand and labour market needs. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 14, 2026. Devin Stevens, The Canadian Press
