I am pleased to announce the publication of the University of Toronto’s Strategic Mandate Agreement (SMA) with the Province for the period 2017-2020. This is the second multi-year agreement developed under the differentiation policy framework for post-secondary education, and re-confirms the university’s leadership role in research and innovation in Ontario.

The SMA establishes an enrolment planning framework for the next three years, including funding for 631 new master’s and 198 new doctoral spots by Fall 2019. In response to Ontario’s changing demographics, the University and Province have agreed to a reduction of 1,800 domestic undergraduate spaces at the St. George Campus. Domestic undergraduate enrolment at the University of Toronto Scarborough and University of Toronto Mississauga will be held constant at current levels over the period of the agreement.

The agreement also begins the transition to a new funding framework, in which a portion of enrolment-based funding will be moved into a differentiation envelope tied to performance in priority areas such as student experience; innovation, economic development and community engagement; research excellence and impact; access and equity; and innovative teaching. The differentiation envelope will be revenue-neutral through the SMA2 period while the Province consults with the sector to refine metrics and targets, which will be tied to funding for SMA3 (2020-2023).

Revised enrolment plans for Fall 2018 have been discussed with Deans as part of the annual academic budget review process, and will be reflected in budget allocations for 2018-19. I have asked the Planning & Budget Office to begin consultation with divisions on the budget implications of implementing a performance-based funding framework in 2020 and beyond.