By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
Canada has solidified its position as a premier destination for international students, lauded for its world-class educational institutions, inclusivity, and promising post-graduation prospects. However, while international students have enriched campuses nationwide, they’ve grappled with hurdles within Canada’s International Student Program.
In a recent announcement, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller unveiled an array of strategic measures aimed at fortifying Canada’s International Student Program and safeguarding legitimate students from fraudulent practices. These measures, set to take effect in the coming months, reflect the nation’s commitment to ensuring the program’s integrity and alignment with broader immigration goals.
Key initiatives to be implemented include:
1. Strengthening Verification: Commencing December 1, 2023, post-secondary designated learning institutions (DLIs) will be mandated to verify each applicant’s letter of acceptance directly with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This proactive step is designed to identify and thwart fraudulent acceptance letters swiftly.
2. Recognized Institution Framework: By the fall semester of 2024, IRCC will introduce a “recognized institution” framework. This framework will offer advantages to post-secondary DLIs that maintain a high standard of services, support, and outcomes for international students. The initiative aims to uplift the quality of education and student experience.
3. Reforming Work Permit Program: Shortly, IRCC will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the criteria governing the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
Subsequent reforms will be guided by the evolving needs of the Canadian labour market and will be tailored to align with regional and Francophone immigration objectives. Minister Miller emphasized the immeasurable value that International students bring to Canada, contributing socially, culturally, and economically. These reforms directly respond to the challenges threatening the integrity of the International Student Program, focusing on countering fraudulent actors who exploit genuine students for financial gain.
Indo-Canadian Sarah Kumari, presently residing in Milton, said, “My niece has been considering Canada for her higher education, and these measures sound promising. Knowing that the government is actively working to prevent fraud and enhance the overall experience for international students makes me feel more confident about her plans. It’s a positive step in the right direction.”
The institutions demonstrating strong support for international students will gain recognition, fast-tracking their applicants through the processing pipeline. The goal is to identify and retain students best suited to meet Canada’s economic and immigration objectives.
Anna Kovartuk from Acton said, “It’s reassuring to see Canada is taking steps to protect international students. My son has dreams of studying there, and these reforms will help ensure he gets the quality education and support he deserves. This news gives us parents some peace of mind.”
These transformative measures mark the initial changes identified through the review of the International Student Program and align with the broader immigration initiative, “An Immigration System for Canada’s Future.”
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