Holland College suspends programs amid shortfall

Holland College is cutting eight jobs and suspending two programs to compensate for a $1.5 million shortfall.

The provincial government cut the schools funding by three per cent this year.

Vice-President Michael OGrady said that isnt the only hit.

"In combination with inflationary pressures this year, in order to balance our budget, and the college must balance its budget at the start of the year, we were looking for about $1.54 million."

The College wont be offering interactive multi-media this fall. The retail business management program will be absorbed by other business programs.

Melody Dover graduated from the Interactive Multimedia program in 2003. She started her own company and has since hired two grads.

"Its disappointing to hear, because obviously were fond of the program and were fond of the college."

The college says enrollment isnt high enough for the multimedia program. Just seven students are graduating this year.

But Dover believes its valuable.

"I feel that its going to possibly make students feel like they need to go off-island to develop those schools."

OGrady emphasized that the programs arent gone for good. Holland College may offer them again if demand warrants.

O'Grady said every department has been asked to find savings.

Theres no word yet if tuition will be increased because of the shortfall.