CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today applauded the University System of New Hampshire for launching its new " Affordable College Effort," an initiative he announced and funded in his budget.

"One of the most important things we can do for our economy and our families is to invest in education. The demands of a changing economy require a highly skilled and educated workforce. Most new jobs require a college education," Gov. Lynch said. "We must take steps to make college more affordable for our children and families."

"This new initiative will help make college possible and more affordable for low-income income students, and I applaud the University System for following through on this effort," Gov. Lynch said.

Under the Initiative, eligible students will not have to take out any loans to meet the direct costs of education at the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Keene State College and Granite State College.

During their freshmen year, eligible students will incur no loan debt for meeting the direct costs of education, provided that they have met all information submission deadlines. Direct (or billed) costs include tuition and standard fees, as well as standard campus housing and meal plans. ACE Awards will assist eligible freshmen who enroll for classes beginning in fall 2006 at USNH institutions, which include the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Keene State College, and Granite State College.