Advocacy
We champion the causes that matter most to you, challenging inequity and improving the university experience for all Ontario Tech students.
Our Mission
Ensuring quality education, accessibility, and inclusivity for all Ontario Tech students.
Equal Opportunity
We believe that every student, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves high-quality education and a safe campus environment.
Student Voice
We listen to and act on students' concerns, voicing them to the university and government bodies.
Connecting Students
We connect the student body to relevant decision-makers to ensure their voices are heard and considered.
Advocacy Pillars
We consult Ontario Tech students regularly to identify and address the challenges they face. Our advocacy efforts are centered around four key pillars, each with specific focus areas.
Quality of Education
Students deserve high-quality education with transparent processes and suitable options. We focus on:
- Appropriate course delivery methods
- Diverse course options and availability
- Transparent feedback implementation
Ease of Access
Knowledge about Ontario Tech's operations and services should be readily available. We advocate for:
- Transparent governance and processes
- Clear communication of available services
Affordability
Education should not be hindered by financial barriers. Our approach focuses on:
- Affordable textbooks and access codes
- Accessible student housing options
- Support for international students
Inclusivity
Ontario Tech should be a safe and inclusive environment for all. We work on:
- Religious and cultural accommodations
- Addressing and preventing campus bias
Student Advocacy Organizations
We work with external organizations to amplify our advocacy efforts and ensure that the student voice is heard at all levels.
Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance
Current member of OUSA (paid student fee).
The Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) represents the interests of approximately 160,000 professional and undergraduate, full-time and part-time university students at nine student associations across Ontario.
Canadian Alliance of Student Associations
Current observer for CASA (no fee paid).
The Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) is a national voice for Canada’s post-secondary students. Established in 1995, CASA is a non-partisan, not-for-profit student organization composed of student associations from across Canada. We represent undergraduate, graduate and polytechnic associations.
Past Advocacy Wins
A look at some of our recent successes in improving student life at Ontario Tech.
- Digital Learning Policy Amendment: Lowered maximum cost of one term access codes by 35%, from $100 to $65
- UPASS: Partnered with the DRT to provide discounted, flat-rate transit to students
- Period Project: Installed Aunt Flow dispensers in washrooms around campus to provide students with free menstrual products
- Exam Policy Change: Successfully negotiated longer exam periods and lower final project weights
- Student Union space in Shawenjigewining Hall: Negotiated our offices and student gathering and study space to be a part of the new building constructed in 2021
How to Get Involved
Join our committees, participate in surveys, or be part of our focus groups to help shape the future of Ontario Tech.
Committees
Students can join our Downtown Advisory Committee or Student Advocacy Advisory Committee to help steer our focus for the academic year. Committee members meet each month to discuss related issues and develop action plans to address them.
Surveys
Our Student Feedback Survey is always open to keep a pulse on the issues that affect you. Complete the Student Feedback Survey to share your experiences with everything from clubs and services, to OSAP and digital learning resources, to transit and housing, and more!
Focus Groups
We conduct focus groups from time to time to get students' opinions and viewpoints on hot button topics. If you're interested in taking part in a focus group, please sign up to be included in the next one!
