Governing board approves tuition hikes for most Oklahoma colleges and universities – Norman Transcript

Report on Tuition and Fee Increases in Oklahoma Public Higher Education Institutions

Overview

On Thursday, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education approved tuition and mandatory fee increases requested by 15 public colleges and universities across the state. These adjustments will affect resident undergraduate students, with an average statewide increase of 1.9%, equating to just over $121 annually.

Details of the Tuition and Fee Increases

1. Approval of tuition and fee increases for 15 public higher education institutions.
2. Average increase of 1.9% for resident undergraduate students statewide.
3. Annual increase amounting to approximately $121 per student.
4. Requests were presented by university and college presidents to the state regents on Wednesday prior to approval.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The tuition and fee adjustments reflect a commitment to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

• SDG 4: Quality Education – Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all by maintaining financial sustainability of public institutions.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By regulating tuition increases to a modest average of 1.9%, the board aims to balance institutional funding needs with affordability for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Supporting higher education institutions contributes to workforce development and economic growth through the preparation of skilled graduates.

Implications and Future Considerations

• Ensuring that tuition increases remain moderate to avoid limiting access to higher education.
• Continued monitoring of affordability to support equitable education opportunities.
• Engagement with stakeholders to align institutional funding with sustainable development priorities.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education – The article discusses tuition and fee increases at public colleges and universities, directly relating to access to affordable and quality higher education.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Changes in tuition and fees can impact educational equity and access for different socioeconomic groups, connecting to reducing inequalities.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Higher education is linked to workforce development and economic growth, as tuition changes affect students’ ability to gain skills for employment.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 4 Targets:
   • Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable populations.
2. SDG 10 Targets:
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
3. SDG 8 Targets:
   • Target 8.6: Reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Tuition and Fees Data: The article mentions a 1.9% average increase in tuition and fees, which can be used as an indicator to monitor affordability and access to higher education (related to SDG 4.3).
2. Enrollment Numbers: Although not explicitly mentioned, the impact of tuition increases on enrollment rates, especially among vulnerable groups, is implied and relevant for indicators under SDG 4.5 and SDG 10.2.
3. Graduation and Employment Rates: Implied indicators related to SDG 8.6 include tracking the proportion of youth completing higher education and entering employment or training programs.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: normantranscript.com