Ottawa, Canada – India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, expressed concern over the exploitation of international students in Canada, urging for a rebuild of the country’s reputation as a preferred destination for bright minds. Verma highlighted the tragic consequences that some Indian students have faced due to exploitation, emphasizing the need to address this issue to uphold the mutual benefits of technological advancement between the two nations.
Verma’s remarks come in the wake of heightened scrutiny on Canada’s international student program, which has experienced a significant increase in study permits in recent years. The federal government responded by implementing a two-year cap on foreign student admissions, reflecting the challenges faced by the growing number of international students in the country.
With over one million international students in Canada last year, India stands out as the top source of these students. Despite this, Verma noted the presence of fraudulent educational institutions that have deceived Indian families, leading to heartbreaking outcomes for some students. These tragedies have raised concerns about the well-being and safety of international students in Canada.
Canadian universities and colleges have increasingly relied on international student recruitment to address funding shortages, potentially compromising the financial stability and well-being of these students. Reports have emerged of international students working full-time to support themselves, while others struggle to find employment and face financial insecurity, prompting questions about the viability of studying in Canada.
In addition to financial challenges, the well-being of Indian students in Canada has also been marred by incidents of drug overdoses, with a Sikh temple in Surrey, B.C., reporting a significant number of deaths among Indian students. Verma emphasized the importance of Indian students sharing their experiences on social media to provide a realistic portrayal of the challenges they face in Canada, urging for greater transparency and awareness among parents considering sending their children abroad for education.
As efforts are made to address the issues plaguing international students in Canada, Verma stressed the need for a collective endeavor to restore the reputation of “Brand Canada” in the field of education. The goal is to regain the trust and confidence of prospective students and their families in choosing Canada as a conducive and safe environment for pursuing higher education.
The plight of international students in Canada highlights the complex dynamics of higher education, underscoring the need for enhanced regulations, support systems, and advocacy to ensure the well-being and success of students from around the world. With ongoing conversations and actions, there is hope for a brighter future for international students in Canada.