Following the government's recent announcement of a 35% reduction in new study permits over the next two years, cessation of post-graduation work permits for students in public-private partnership institutions, and the introduction of an attestation letter requirement, industry insiders argue that the measures are overly sweeping.
Beyond the potential harm to Canada's overall brand, critics assert that the one-size-fits-all approach is poised to negatively impact a sector that offers a wide array of study options.
Educational providers without access to post-study work permits may see a decline in business due to the imposed cap, prompting students to explore alternative destinations. The lack of clarity on how provinces will implement study permit caps is also expected to pose a challenge.
Sharon Curl, Vice President of North America for Oxford International, expressed her concerns, stating, "We spent the last two years building career colleges, developing programs, investing in curriculum development, constructing facilities, and assembling teams. We are at a stage where an increase [in students] is needed to yield returns on the investments already made."
While acknowledging the need to address "bad actors" in the sector, Curl highlighted the worrisome nature of the one-size-fits-all solution, given the sector's diversity.
Languages Canada, a language education association, recently issued a press release emphasizing that students enrolling in short-term English or French language programs in Canada do not require study permits. The organization reassured that there are no restrictions on the number of visitors entering Canada for such programs, emphasizing that the country remains open to international language students.
Curl, also an immediate past president on the Languages Canada board, noted that some affected schools contribute significantly to the economy and address Canada's skills shortages.
"Compared to big institutions, we know where every single one of our students lives and sleeps," she remarked. "There's a lot of good news that's coming out that is perhaps overlooked."
Despite the challenges, Curl expressed hope that the quality education offered in Canada will prevail amidst concerns about the potential impact on the country's reputation.
Oxford International, with locations in Vancouver, Toronto, and Halifax, now faces the task of navigating three separate provinces with varying study permit allowances. Curl underscored the complexity arising from the federal government's immigration decisions conflicting with provincial education policies.
"For these types of businesses, there should be support," Curl concluded, underscoring the significance of preserving the positive image Canada has diligently built over the years.
