When public universities are discussed in the media, and in everyday conversation, much of the discussion focuses on their teaching activities and their impact on intellectual development and future opportunities for students. The social, economic and health benefits of a university education for our citizens are clear, demonstrating that our institutions of higher learning are an invaluable common good.
Every day, the 1,500 professors, librarians and researchers at our public universities contribute to the advancement of knowledge in a wide range of disciplines, and in many cases, their work is recognized worldwide. Their work has led to the creation of medical devices, prostheses and new businesses; advanced technologies in data management and security, as well as energy and food production; improved resource management and environmental sustainability, teaching methods in our public school education system, our health and healthcare delivery; and offers answers to the challenges facing our young people, our aging population and our increasingly globalized world; updates the history and cultures of our communities, especially those that have been historically marginalized, such as Aboriginal, Black and Acadian people. At the same time, the research and creative activities of academics contribute to the musical, literary and artistic vitality that is so essential to human societies.
Research and the advancement of knowledge are the true cornerstones of New Brunswick’s public universities. These activities are intimately linked to teaching in a university context. They help shape course content, determine the questions we ask our students, and encourage them to explore different facets of the subject using the latest knowledge. Research is the platform from which we encourage students to think critically, evaluate hypotheses, facts and theories, develop arguments, and communicate clearly and convincingly. It is through research, in all fields and disciplines, that we are able to mentor our students and help them develop their capacity to question received ideas, to analyze and to create.
The ultimate goal of universities is to be institutions dedicated to inquiry free of undue constraints, independent of government and private-sector influence, and dedicated to research in all its forms.
Universities are the only institutions of their kind in existence today. For this reason, the Federation of New Brunswick Faculty Associations affirms the need to promote the unique role they play by giving top priority to their funding, and by working together to ensure that all New Brunswickers have access to this fundamental public good, regardless of their financial means.
Join the FNBFA this provincial election and call for strong public universities – an investment in New Brunswick’s future.
