By: Nicole Fernandes
Ryerson University released a cannabis campus policy on Wednesday, which will allow students to smoke and vape cannabis on campus.
Nikita Vasiliev, a Ryerson student who smokes cannabis, said that legalization and Ryerson’s new policy wont change much for him.
“I won’t be smoking more in general. I’ll be smoking the same amount,” said Vasiliev.
Ryerson student Jared Lenson says he’ll actually be cutting down on his cannabis consumption.
“If I did continue to smoke…[my usage] wouldn’t increase because it’s legalized,” said Lenson. “I feel like it just increases the accessibility and ensures everyone [the cannabis] is going to be good quality stuff.”
Ryerson’s Policy vs Other Ontario Universities
Ryerson’s approach to managing cannabis consumption on their campus focuses on education and awareness.
“Instead of taking a crime and punishment approach, let’s inform the community of the risks associated with using these substances,” said Allan Macdonald, Ryerson’s Director of Health and Student Wellness, on the Ryerson Today podcast.
Macdonald said the university will encourage “healthy behaviour” when it comes to students using cannabis.
Other Ontario universities and colleges, such as the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) and Durham College, have banned smoking and vaping on campus, including cannabis and tobacco.
“As an institution of higher learning, it is imperative that we live our values,” UOIT president Steven Murphy told the Toronto Star. “We desire a community where we can study, work and play in a healthy environment for mind and body.”
Some Ryerson students, like third-year biology student Ruby D’Silva, think the university should follow the same protocol as UOIT.
“I’m just concerned about a rise of people being high,” D’Silva said. “When I come to school I want to feel safe. I’m not looking forward to the smell of marijuana on campus either.”
According to the Ryersonian, Ryerson campus security will be monitoring campus for any infractions, and students are encouraged to say something if they see people misusing the drug.
Denise Campbell, executive director of security at Ryerson, did not respond to an interview request from JRN 270.
Ryerson has launched a cannabis hub site where students can find rules, FAQs and support services. The website will be updated in accordance with any law changes.
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Mohamed Lachemi, Ryerson president, told The Eyeopener that the university will establish a specific cannabis consumption policy in December.
With files from Jacob Stoller, Sabrina Pourghassemi, Jenna Naccarato
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