Montreal, Canada – Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma has raised concerns over the exploitation and tragic deaths of international students in Canada. Verma emphasized the need to rebuild Canada’s reputation as a preferred destination for bright minds, citing the detrimental impact of unethical practices in educational institutions on Indian students.
Verma highlighted that a significant number of Indian students have been victims of exploitation by fraudulent schools, leading to tragic consequences. The exploitation of international students has raised questions about the integrity of Canada’s international student program, which has faced scrutiny following a surge in study permits in recent years.
With over one million international students in Canada last year, India stands as the leading source of these students. However, Verma pointed out that some students have lost their lives due to exploitation, with families often sacrificing valuable resources to send their children to study abroad.
The influx of international students has become a revenue source for Canadian universities and colleges, but at a cost to students who struggle to meet financial demands. Many international students work full-time jobs to cover expenses, while others face uncertainty about their financial stability and the decision to continue their studies in Canada.
Recent reports have revealed the challenges faced by Indian students in Canada, with a Sikh temple in Surrey, B.C. acknowledging the deaths of dozens of students, largely attributed to drug overdoses. Verma urged Indian students in Canada to share their experiences on social media to shed light on the realities they face and provide valuable insights for prospective students and their families.
Verma emphasized the importance of restoring Canada’s reputation as a quality education destination, urging Canadians to address the issues plaguing the international student program. By fostering transparency and addressing the challenges faced by international students, Canada can regain its standing as a welcoming and supportive environment for students from around the world.