Through her latest campaign promise in the race for the NDP leadership, Theresa Oswald is reaching out to students — particularly the ones who, in her words, are "too often left behind."

On Sunday, Oswald announced a number of initiatives that would make post-secondary education more accessible and affordable than it is now, when the average student debt for a four-year undergraduate degree is $20,000, according to Oswald.

"A good education can break down barriers and build a stronger future, both for young people and for our province," Oswald said. "Ensuring that we have affordable universities and colleges is very, very important. It's important for your kids and it's important for mine."

Oswald said she wants post-secondary education to be more accessible to everyone by the time her nine-year-old son graduates from high school.

"I want him to be able to come to university to study whatever he wants to study, to excel at whatever he wishes to excel at and I know that's no different than the parents of the young people who stand behind me today."

Among the initiatives Oswald promised are no-interest Manitoba student loans to part-time students, reducing textbook costs and funding the provincial component of the transit pass for students.

She also committed to restoring multi-year funding agreements with colleges and universities to make funding predictable.

"The alternative is Brian Pallister's plan," Oswald said. "One filled with cuts that will take us backwards and make it harder for young people to afford a university or college education."

Also on Sunday, New Democrats decided to accommodate northern Manitoba delegates, opting to allow mail-in ballots for the upcoming NDP leadership election for those unable to attend the annual Winnipeg convention.