Canada

Canadian Colleges to Partner with India on Skills Development

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Source: Globe & Mail via Academica

A group of Canadian PSE institutions is planning to sign MOUs this week with India’s National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) during a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 12 institutions, including 9 colleges, will work with Indian partners in specific sectors to create and improve training opportunities for Indian youth. The Indian partners will pay the colleges for services including curriculum development, training for Indian educators, and help with accreditation systems. NSDC, a large public-private partnership that aims to develop for-profit vocational institutions, has established centres of excellence across India that will house the partnerships.

CIEC Facilitates PM Modi Visit in Toronto

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India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi made a much anticipated stop in Toronto, Canada for a Community Reception during his three-nation tour. This marked the first time an Indian PM visited Canada in 42 years. The PM was eager to meet his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper as well as address the Indo-Canadian community during his visit to Canada.

Canada India Education Council has joined the National Alliance of Indo-Canadians (NAIC) as a Welcoming Partner for this historic event which will be attended by several CIEC members and guests.

https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/588495107961192449

From: National Post

The thousands in attendance were full of excitement as they chanted “Modi! Modi!” However in the midst of the celebrations business was still attended to. Various agreements were signed and ties between the nations were further strengthened.

Modi was quoted as saying “Canada is a major Asia-Pacific power and should play a more active role, including in regional institutions.” Harper said about the relationship between Canada and India, “It’s not where we want it to be, but it’s growing.”

From: Metro News

At the event, Harper welcomed Modi as an individual “with humble roots and a devout spirit”. Modi then came to the stage, thanking the Indo-Canadian community for all they have done in terms of “enhancing the glory of India” abroad.

https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/588516353037836288

Canada Invests Nearly $250M in International Observatory Project

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Source: UBC News Release via Academica

Canada is investing close to $250 M to help build what will be reportedly be the world’s most powerful optical telescope. Canada will contribute $243.5 M to the Thirty Meter Telescope project, to be located on the summit of Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii. Canada joins partners from Japan, India, China, and the United States in backing the initiative. Much of Canada’s funding will support the construction of the telescope’s enclosure and optical instruments, features that were designed by Canadian engineers and that will be fabricated in British Columbia. Construction of the observatory, which had been delayed pending the Canadian government’s decision, can now begin in earnest. Researchers across the country applauded the announcement. “[It’s] an amazing day for Canada,” said Ray Calberg, an astronomer at the University of Toronto. Paul Davidson, President of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC), said in statement that “this timely investment gives certainty to Canada’s role in this globally important project.” The 22-storey-tall observatory is expected to be operational in 2023.

Canada Announces Funding for National Accelerator Initiatives

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Source: SFU News Release via Academica

Canada has announced that Ryerson University, [CIEC Academic Member] Simon Fraser University, and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) will receive up to $10.7 M over the next 5 years in support of the Zones of Incubation and Innovation initiative. The funding will be distributed through the Canada Accelerator and Incubator Program (CAIP). The joint initiative between the 3 institutions is intended to provide universities and community-based entrepreneurs involved with digital technology start-ups access to facilities, business development resources, and mentoring. “The Zones of Incubation and Innovation Network will play an important role in SFU’s growing innovation agenda. We are pleased to be partnering with Ryerson University and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology on this initiative and grateful for the financial support provided by the Government of Canada through the CAIP program,” said SFU VP Research Joy Johnson. Canada also announced $2.7 M in funding for The Next 36, a national accelerator and incubator program that includes 9 Canadian universities as academic partners.

Canada Invests in Programs to Support Internationally Educated Health Professionals

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Source: Canada News Release via Academica

The federal government has announced that Canada will invest nearly $8.4 M to support initiatives that bring internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) into the workforce. Approximately 4.6 M Canadians do not have a regular family doctor, while there are 10,000 newcomers to Canada who are health-related professionals. The funding will support 3 initiatives that will be implemented through a collaboration between HealthForceOntario and the University of Toronto. Canada has also provided $150,000 to the Medical Council of Canada for a project intended to help international medical graduates prepare to enter the workforce. In a statement, Canadian Medical Association (CMA) President Chris Simpson welcomed the announcement, but warned that “actively recruiting from developing countries is not an acceptable solution to our physician shortage.” Simpson noted that “it has been almost 4 decades since the completion of a national study of physician requirements,” and said that Canada must become more self-sufficient in its efforts to educate and train physicians. Academica Group recently worked with multiple collaborators on a report that evaluated bridging programs for IEHPs.

Meet Canada’s New Minister of Foreign Affairs

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Source: Connect: Canada In India

The Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper recently announced changes to the ministry, naming Robert Nicholson Minister of Foreign Affairs. Minister Nicholson was first elected to Parliament in 1984. Immediately prior to the announcement, Mr. Nicholson had been serving as Minister of National Defence since 2013. He will continue the Government’s efforts to ensure that Canada’s foreign policy reflects true Canadian values and advances Canada’s national interests.

Prime Minister Harper was quoted as saying “Our Government is delivering real results for Canadians by growing the economy, making communities safer, and standing up for Canadian values at home and abroad. The changes to the Ministry announced today will help ensure that key portfolios continue to have the strong leadership required to advance Canadian priorities.”

Everest College Files For Bankruptcy Protection

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Source: CBC via Academica

Everest College filed for bankruptcy protection on Friday, one day after Ontario shut down its 14 campuses in the province. Provincial Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities Reza Moridi said, “since the suspension occurred, the superintendent [of private career colleges] has been working diligently to put training completion plans into place for students. While this is still a challenging situation for students, Everest’s bankruptcy does not change these ongoing efforts.” Moridi also emphasized that the bankruptcy should not affect the province’s ability to administer the Training Completion Assurance Fund set aside for Everest’s former students.

Ontario Shuts Down Everest College

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Source: CCO News Release via Academica

Citing financial concerns, Ontario’s Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities has suspended the operations of Everest College, a private career college with 14 locations in the province. Approximately 2,400 students and 450 staff have been affected by the move. Everest College is owned by the US-based Corinthian Colleges, which has been under investigation by the US government. The province said that it has allocated $3 M for students who wish to apply for refunds; students may also be eligible to transfer their tuition to comparable programs. “Our first concern is for the students and faculty affected by the suspension of all Everest College campus activities,” said Minister Reza Moridi. Corinthian spokesperson Joe Hixson said that Ontario’s action took the company by surprise. “We were informed this morning, just like the students were,” he said. “We’ve been working with the ministry for the past few months to try to find a path forward, so this came, in our mind, out of nowhere.” In a statement, Career Colleges Ontario (CCO) said that “this cessation is an adverse result of the US parent company… terminating its operations in the United States last year… CCO is diligently working alongside the MTCU to transfer existing Everest College students to alternative career colleges, while ensuring that all current students are properly accommodated.”

CICIC Redesigns Website to Better Meet Needs of User Groups

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Source: CICIC Website via Academica | December 16, 2014

The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC) has unveiled its newly redesigned website. The website offers resources to help students and education professionals find critical information on mobility and credential recognition. It offers specific information to users based on their situation and needs. For individuals, the site includes information on the credential recognition process to study or work in Canada or abroad, as well as directories of Canadian educational institutions, occupational profiles, Canadian offshore schools and international education resources, and international labour-mobility resources. Assessors can access a number of international academic credential assessment resources as well as information about important initiatives related to credential assessment. Education professionals, meanwhile, can find information on education systems and quality-assurance mechanisms in Canada. The site’s new “Connect the Dots!” feature helps users identify with a simple questionnaire the information most pertinent to their needs.

StatsCan Report Offers International Context for Canada’s Education Indicators

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Source: StatsCan Daily via Academica | December 16, 2014

Statistics Canada has released a new report that puts Canada’s education indicators in an international context. According to the report, the proportion of Canadian adults aged 25–64 with college or university completion has risen from 40% in 2000 to 53% in 2012, the highest rate among Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries. 25% of Canadians aged 25–64 had completed non-university certificates or diplomas from community colleges, schools of nursing or university certificates below the bachelor’s level. The report also indicates that the 2012 employment rate among Canadians aged 25–64 who had completed a college or university program was 80%. Canada was found to have allocated 95.2% of the total expenditure per student to core services; the total expenditure per student at the university level was US$27,102, the highest among all OECD countries. StatsCan also notes that Canada allocates 6.4% of its GDP on educational institutions, just slightly higher than the OECD average of 6.1%. In 2011, the report says, there were 122,277 international students registered in college or university programs in Canada, accounting for 8.2% of all students enrolled in tertiary education; the highest proportion of those (27%) came from China.

SK Launches New International Education Strategy

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Source: SK News Release via Academica | November 26, 2014

Saskatchewan has launched a new International Education Strategy that aims to increase the number of SK students studying abroad, increase the number of international students studying in SK, and increase the number and value of international research partnerships. The Strategy outlines several initiatives that will be implemented to accomplish these 3 goals, including the foundation of an annual International Future Scholarship to help SK students study business abroad; the re-establishment of a postsecondary international education council to foster collaboration between government, PSE institutions, and industry; and the development of a provincial marketing strategy to promote studying internationally for SK students and to attract international students to SK. “We want our young people to acquire the skills they need to work in a global context and strengthen our province’s cultural business expertise worldwide,” said SK’s Advanced Education Minister Kevin Doherty. “This will help to build relationships with our trading partners, to increase investments and partnerships to keep our provincial economy strong. For the students that return to their home countries, they will become excellent ambassadors of our province.”

CBIE Says Canada Must Send More Students to Study Abroad

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Source: CBIE News Release via Academica | November 24, 2014

The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) has released its annual report on the state of international education in Canada. According to the report, the number of international students coming to Canada is increasing; however, only 3% of Canadian students are studying internationally. CBIE says that this number needs to improve to 15%. “If we don’t increase the number of students studying abroad, we won’t be involved in the trade deals that Canada is putting into place now, or in meeting global challenges,” said CBIE President Karen McBride. The report also found that 50% of international students intend to apply for permanent residence in Canada, that 55% of international students intend to pursue additional studies in Canada after completing their current program, and that 2013 figures show an 84% increase in international students in Canada over the last decade and an 11% increase over the previous year.

Survey Shows International Students Believe Canada is Safe, Affordable for Studies

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Source: Asian Pacific Post via Academica | November 20, 2014

A new survey of international students from Asia and the Middle East has shown that, among English speaking destinations, Canada has a strong reputation for affordability and safety. The survey polled 1,000 students who had used the services of the global education agency IDP. Canada ranked as the top nation for affordability and safety, and was ranked second for graduate employment opportunities and government student visa requirements and policies. Canada ranked fourth for quality of education, finishing behind the US, Australia, and the UK. 44% of the students completing the survey were enrolled or planned to enrol in STEM fields; 43% in commerce and management; and 10% in health. Three-quarters said that they had parental support to fund their education. Respondents said that the top reason they felt an international education was “worth it” was “to gain better knowledge/skills than at home,” followed by “obtaining a good job in a chosen field” and “earning more money.”  The majority of respondents were from India.

More International Students Are Choosing Canada

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Source: Canada News Release via Academica | November 11, 2014

Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander last week announced that Canada is on track to welcome a record number of international students this school year. According to preliminary reports, Canada has so far issued 103,999 study permits to foreign students, an 11% increase over 2013, and a 26% increase over 2012. More than half of these students are coming from China (29,414), India (13,758), South Korea (7,284), France (7,045), and the United States (4,847). “Our government is proud that Canada continues to be a study destination of choice for international students. International students generate an estimated $8 billion in economic activity in Canada each year and thousands will remain in Canada permanently, putting their education and experience to work and contributing to economic and job growth in Canada,” said Alexander. In January, Canada released a new International Education Strategy that aims to increase the number of international students in Canada to 450,000 by 2022.

B.C. Premier Christy Clark in India

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Source: CONNECT: Canada In India | November 10, 2014

The Premier of the Canadian province of British Columbia, Christy Clark, led a trade mission to India, from October 9 to 18, joined by British Columbia’s Minister of Advanced Education Amrik Virk, and trade and education delegates.

In addition to meeting the Chief Minister of Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal, Premier Clark met with key government officials and business leaders in Chandigarh, New Delhi, and Mumbai to further strengthen trade and bilateral ties with India. Minister Virk also traveled to Bengaluru to raise awareness of the great potential for secondary and post-secondary education partnerships, joint research initiatives, and student exchange.

The trade mission focused on a number of key areas including education, natural gas, clean technology, life sciences, film, digital arts and finance.

Week of High-level Engagement with India

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Source: CONNECT: Canada in India | November 10, 2014

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird Minister of International Trade Ed Fast and Minister of National Revenue Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, accompanied by Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and for International Human Rights Deepak Obhrai and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice Bob Dechert visited India during a week of high-level visits in October.

Minister Baird and Minister Fast notably met India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss international security and the expanding bilateral relationship between Canada and India.

During his visit to New Delhi, from October 13 to 14, Minister Baird and India’s Minister of External Affairs, Sushma Swaraj participated in the second annual Canada-India Strategic Dialogue. Minister Baird also participated in several other events to further bolster ties and areas of cooperation between the two countries.

As part of his visit to India, from October 12 to 18, Minister Fast, joined by Minister Findlay, led a trade mission to Mumbai, New Delhi and Chandigarh, accompanied by representatives from 14 Canadian companies. In addition to bilateral meetings with senior leaders and ministers, Minister Fast and Minister Findlay also witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at bolstering Canada-India trade and investment partnerships.

In the lead-up to their visit, Minister Baird and Minister Fast announced the appointment of Nadir Patel as the High Commissioner-designate for Canada to India.

Canada Creates Panel to Improve Recognition of Foreign Credentials

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Source: Canada News Release via Academica | October 30, 2014

The federal government has created the Panel on Employment Challenges of New Canadians in order to improve the recognition of the credentials of internationally trained professionals. “Our government’s top priorities are creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. Our government recognizes that skilled newcomers will help fill shortages in key occupations and make an important contribution to Canada’s economy. The work of the Panel will help to shape strategies to better integrate newcomers into the workforce and break down barriers faced by employers when hiring and retaining newcomers,” said Jason Kenney, Canada’s Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister for Multiculturalism. The panel will consist of experts in newcomer integration, diversity, and certification. Immigrant advocate and social entrepreneur Nick Noorani [of CIEC Academic Member Destination Canada Information Inc.] will serve as Chair of the panel.

CIEC and Stephen Harper Attend the 14th National Diwali Celebration in Toronto

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On October 18, 2014, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, along with Husain F. Neemuchwala (CIEC – CEO) & Kalpa Pathak (CIEC – Director of Public Affairs & Member Services) took part in the 14th National Diwali Celebration at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada.

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PM Stephen Harper Delivers Remarks in Brampton

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Source: Government of Canada | October 18, 2014

Video: Husain F. Neemuchwala (CIEC – CEO) & Kalpa Pathak (CIEC – Director of Public Affairs & Member Services) on Toronto’s CP24 News

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today delivered the following remarks at the 14th Annual Diwali Celebration in Brampton:

“Thank you very much. Good afternoon. Namaste and happy Diwali everybody! I just want to begin by acknowledging all of my colleagues. First of all, by thanking our master of ceremonies today, one more big hand for Canada’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, the Honourable Chris Alexander. I also want to extend my sincere thanks to my introducer and caucus colleague, as we know who is the gentleman who really put Diwali on our national calendar in Canada, one more hand for the Honourable Deepak Obhrai. And of course colleagues I’m just delighted with how many of my friends and colleagues from both Houses of our Parliament have come here today. So I’d ask everybody – Parm Gill, everyone else –  to stand. Please give one more round for all these great Members of Parliament who are joining us. Colleagues from all levels of government, members of the diplomatic corps, respected religious and spiritual leaders, ladies and gentlemen. I want to extend my personal gratitude to our host here today, the Hindu Sabha Mandir, and to all the regional temples – there are so many – who are playing a role in today’s festivities. This is a very impressive turnout. So a big hand to all of the organizers of this event.”

“Friends, the Indo-Canadian community has a proud and rich history in our country. Since the first Indian immigrants arrived in Canada more than a century ago, the Indo-Canadian community has grown in size and prominence. And you, India’s sons and daughters, have and continue to make lasting contributions to Canada’s strength and to our prosperity. Some of these contributions can be seen, quite literally, all around us. This beautiful Hindu Sabha Mandir, I’m told as Deepak said, the oldest and largest of its kind in Canada, and my second visit – what a beautiful place to hold this, thank you everybody, our hosts here. Not far from here, the extraordinary BAPS Mandir, a stunning complex that I had the great honour to officially open back in 2007. There’s the Gur Sikh temple, the oldest standing SikhTemple in North America. And of course the Vishnu Mandir, which I had the pleasure of visiting two weeks ago. Those and many other impressive Hindu and Sikh facilities are true, visible monuments to the accomplishments and vitality of our Indo-Canadian community. Of course, in addition to stunning temples, you’ve also helped to build stronger cities and communities. Indeed, as a result of your commitment to work and education, to faith and to family, you’ve helped build a better and more prosperous country for all of us. So thank you for that.”

“Now, friends, all of these beautiful temples remind me of my two trips to India, the two trips that Laureen and I have had the pleasure of making. I want to thank you as well for the important role that I know many of you here are playing in strengthening relations between Canada and India. The bottom line is this: the relationship between Canada and India is strong. In fact, it is stronger than it has been in decades. It is a great relationship. Something that we all should be very proud of. And friends, our Government is committed to continuing to enhance this special relationship with India, a rising economic power, and one of the fastest growing regions in the world today. In the world; I should also add in the Solar System, because just recently, India became the first country ever to put a spacecraft in Mars-orbit on the very first try. And I know Deepak had an opportunity to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on that remarkable achievement. Friends, you can be sure that India will remain a key priority in Canada’s international agenda. We will continue to work to eliminate barriers that interfere with bilateral trade and investment, and we will continue to reform our immigration system to make it easier for immigrants to build a life here in Canada and contribute to this country to the maximum of their capacity.”

“Now ladies and gentlemen, I just want to close with this on this occasion. As you know, we’re here today to celebrate the great Hindu, Sikh and Jain tradition, now the great Canadian tradition of Diwali. And I will admit that this year – perhaps more than any other – I am pleased to mark Diwali, ’The Festival of Lights,’ because in this year, much of our world has become a darker place, and certainly, it has become more dangerous. And friends, that is precisely why we need to celebrate Diwali. For Diwali reminds us that light always casts out darkness. That truth always dispels ignorance and fear. That there is good in the world, and that, in the end, good will triumph. Diwali also reminds us that we have much to be thankful for: safe and healthy families in a country – a home – that is peaceful and prosperous and full of opportunities for those looking to build a better life for those they love. Once again, ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank all of you for being here, particularly our hosts, and for all that you are contributing to this magnificent country. Happy Diwali, everybody!”

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Releases Report on Getting Graduates into Labour Market

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Source: CCC Report via Academica | Oct 16, 2014

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) has released a new report entitled “A Battle We Can’t Afford to Lose: Getting Young Canadians from Education to Employment.” The report considers 3 factors that it says affect young Canadians’ ability to join the labour market: labour market information, career decision-making, and work-integrated learning. The CCC calls on governments, education providers, and businesses to collaborate in order to mitigate skills mismatching and to help students transition from education to employment, and identifies the development of basic skills—including literacy, numeracy, technological literacy, and problem solving—as a priority issue. The report emphasizes the value of “soft” skills, including relationship-building skills and communication skills, as being particularly important for entry-level positions; moreover, it highlights the importance of strong labour market information to help guide career decision-making, curricula design, recruitment strategies, and education policy-making. The CCC also emphasizes the value of work-integrated learning, and suggests that it is underused by university students.

NS to Hold New Round of Consultations on Role of University System

NS to Hold New Round of Consultations on Role of University System

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Source: NS News Release via Academica | Oct 10, 2014

Nova Scotia is launching a new round of public consultations into the role of universities in the province. The government will reach out to students, faculty, campus staff, university Presidents, businesses, and the international community to collect ideas on how universities can help improve the provincial economy and keep young people in NS. “Nova Scotia universities are among the top in the country in terms of bringing in international students. So we’re at the forefront of that, but it’s to make sure that there’s a good alignment between the needs of the province and what universities are providing,” said Minister of Labour and Advanced Education Kelly Regan. Among the issues to be considered in the consultation process is how to make higher education more affordable for students. The latest round of consultations follows a report submitted to the province 4 years ago by economist Tim O’Neill, who recommended tying operating grants to population growth, government spending growth, or GDP, as well as exploring mergers, private-public partnerships, and tuition increases. The sessions are expected to lead to the release of a “vision paper” in early 2015.

Brands Miss Out By Not Marketing to International Students

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Source: Marketing via Academica | Sept. 26, 2014

An article in Marketing magazine questions why Canadian marketers don’t devote more attention to international students. The article cites Canada’s ambition to double the number of international students and researchers in Canada, as well as a 94% increase in the number of international students entering Canada in the past decade. These students spent more than $8 B and helped create 81,000 jobs in that period; moreover, as a market, international students are likely to enjoy a certain amount of disposable income. The author of the article notes that the number of countries from which international students originate can make a unified strategy impossible, but points to overarching trends that should inform international student marketing strategies. She suggests that brands draw insight from their multicultural marketing efforts and focus on digital marketing strategies, as well as on geo-specific campaigns centred around PSE campuses.

Canada Tops OECD Rankings in PSE spending, Adult PSE Attainment

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Source: Times Higher Education via Academica | Sept 10, 2014

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has released its annual “Education at a Glance” report. According to the report, Canada spent 2.8% of its GDP on postsecondary institutions in 2010. This was sufficient to surpass the US as the world leader in this category. Canada was found to have spent twice as much as the OECD average to educate each PSE student. 43% of the cost of PSE in Canada is picked up privately, higher than the OECD average of 31%. The report says that Canada’s colleges have helped the country achieve the highest rate of adult PSE attainment in the developed world. 24% of Canadian adults were found to have graduated from a community college, and 57.3% of Canadians were reported to have achieved postsecondary degrees. Canada’s share of international students increased by about 5% between 2000 and 2012, while the US’s share slipped from 23% to 16%. However, Canada’s math scores—while still higher than the OECD average—have dropped from 2003 levels. Canada is not the only country in which math scores have fallen, with Finland and the Netherlands also seeing reductions.

Immigrant Employment Projects Get Funding from MB, Canada

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Source: Canada News Release via Academica | Aug 21, 2014

The governments of Canada and Manitoba have teamed up to provide $1.1 M to Employment Solutions for Immigrants for 2 projects designed to help immigrant youth reduce barriers to employment. The first project will help 120 immigrant youth gain life and employability skills through workshops and work placements. The second project will provide 20 immigrant youth with job placements in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, transportation, and health care services. “These programs offer newcomer youth with a much better chance of entering the Canadian workplace, not only with enhanced preparation and increased confidence, but also in a field and at a job level that is on a par with their existing skills and experience. In short, these programs set up newcomer youth for career success,” said Executive Director of Employment Solutions for Immigrants Loraine M Nyokong.

Canadian Schools Partner and Lower Language Requirements to Attract Foreign Students

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Source: Globe & Mail via Academica | Aug 14, 2014

Canadian PSE institutions have begun to loosen standards around English-language proficiency in order to attract more foreign students, reports the Globe and Mail. The move is usually part of a partnership between a school board and university or college, as in the case of the Limestone District School Board in Kingston, Ontario, which has partnered with Queen’s University. Queen’s pays part of the board’s recruitment costs, and students are conditionally accepted into the arts and science faculty at Queen’s, with reduced requirements for English-language proficiency. The Toronto District School Board says it is negotiating a similar partnership with the University of Toronto, where the language proficiency exam requirement would be waived for foreign students that have attended 2 years of high school in one of the board’s schools. Many schools at both the secondary and PSE level have begun to recruit heavily in international markets to offset a declining youth demographic. The Vancouver School Board currently has more than 1,300 foreign students attending its schools, with total revenue from foreign student tuition expected to reach $20 M this upcoming year.

Canada Prepared to Capitalize on US Immigration Reform Roadblocks

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Source: Winnipeg Free Press via Academica | Aug 11, 2014

Canadian employment minister Jason Kenney said that Canada is poised to take advantage of the slow immigration reform process in the United States. “We’re seeking very deliberately to benefit from the dysfunctional American immigration system. I make no bones about it,” said Kenney. He believes that Canada will be able to capitalize by luring foreign-born graduates of top US programs with a new start-up visa program and programs that will fast-track some individuals to permanent residency. “If the United States doesn’t want to open the door to permanent residency for them, that door will be opened in principle for them to come to Canada,” Kenney said. He mentioned that the government had installed a large billboard in California that generated “massive interest and buzz” in Silicon Valley. Kenney made his comments while in Vancouver to announce a $3.3-M funding package to help foreign-trained newcomers find work in British Columbia’s energy and resource sectors, part of afederal push to attract skilled employees.

Internationally Trained Lawyers Get Help Transitioning to Canadian Law at uToronto

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Source: uToronto News via Academica | Aug 5, 2014

A University of Toronto program that helps internationally trained lawyers integrate into Canadian law practice is being highlighted as a success. The Internationally Trained Lawyers Program (ITLP), reportedly the only one of its kind in Canada, helps lawyers who are qualified to practice law in their home countries obtain a license to practice law in Ontario while providing a networking and support system to help students connect with the legal system and pursue career opportunities. One recent student complimented the program, including its internship component, noting that she now has a “better understanding of the Canadian legal profession… the internship opportunity was truly very important because now I have acquired some Canadian law experience.”

Dalhousie’s Pilot Program Helps Put International Students in NS Workplaces

Dalhousie’s Pilot Program Helps Put International Students in NS Workplaces

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Source: Chronicle Herald via Academica | July 23, 2014

Dalhousie University has launched a pilot program to help international students establish themselves in Nova Scotia’s workplaces. “We’ve noticed that many [international students] are having to go back to their home countries to do their work terms in order to stay on track… and graduate with our [commerce] program,” said Anna Cranston, Director of Management Career Services at Dal. The new workplace experience program helps international students establish contacts and build their confidence in the Canadian workplace. Students and employers alike learn more about cultural differences as well as the challenges faced by international students looking to join the Canadian workforce. “It’s only a small way but if there’s a way that we can find to make international students feel more comfortable in the workplace and out getting jobs, then maybe there’s a chance that they’re going to stay when they graduate,” said Robert Everist, Chief Operating Officer for Cox & Palmer, a firm that hosted a student this summer. NS recently created pathways to encourage international students to stay in the province post-graduation.

Study Identifies Barriers Experienced by International Students Looking to Work in Canada

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Source: Research Findings via Academica | July 22, 2014

A recently-released research project out of the University of Guelph [CIEC Academic Member] and York University examines the experiences of international students transitioning to the Canadian labour market and identifies a number of barriers these students must overcome in order to integrate into employment. The researchers framed the study around the new International Education Strategy, which aims to double the number of international students studying in Canada, and Ontario’s focus on international students as potentially filling labour gaps. The study found that difficulties finding work in one’s field of study, prejudice against international students, and “inconsistency of information and lack of clarity on constantly changing immigration policies and processes” were some of the barriers experienced by international students. The study also found that the respondents viewed the educational experience at Ontario’s PSE institutions very highly, and often found support and employment within the PSE sector after graduation. The report makes several recommendations for PSE, policy makers, and employers to help ease the transition for international students, including creating more internships and co-op employment opportunities.

Canada Adds 10 Occupations to “Priority” Immigration Program

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Source: Canada News Release via Academica | July 22, 2014

The federal government has announced the addition of 10 occupations to its “priority assessment program” that fast-tracks the recognition and processing of foreign credentials for in-demand occupations. The 10 new occupations increase the program’s list to 24, and include geoscientists, carpenters, electricians, heavy duty equipment technicians, heavy equipment operators, welders, audiologists and speech language pathologists, midwives, psychologists, and lawyers. Healthcare and trades have been highlighted as experiencing skills shortages in certain areas across Canada. Skilled immigrants have often complained that they must take on low-skilled employment while waiting for paperwork to be processed. “We recognize that skilled newcomers help fill shortages in key occupations and make an important contribution to Canada’s economy. That is why we are speeding up foreign credential recognition for 10 more occupations … This means that even more new Canadians can put their skills to work sooner across Canada,” said Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister for Multiculturalism.

Tell Us How You Would Promote Canada as a Study Destination & Win a Trip to Canada

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Source: Consulate General of Canada| July 14, 2014

The High Commission of Canada announces a Marketing Strategy Competition for Indian Students

The High Commission of Canada, in India in partnership with the Rotman School of Management (Canada), today launches a marketing strategy competition for student on the theme of “Positioning Canada as a destination of choice for higher education and research among students in India.” 

The grand prize is a 10-day study trip to Canada at the prestigious Rotman School of Management in Toronto. Cash prizes of INR 20,000 and INR 10,000 will be offered for the second and third positions, respectively.

To take part in this competition, participants have to submit their marketing strategy by 31 August 2014. For rules and details on the application process, please visit: www.ican.net.in/canadacompetition 

Students currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree or young professionals currently enrolled in an MBA entrance preparatory program, such as CAT or GMAT, are eligible to apply.

For further queries, please write to: [email protected]  

To RSVP or for additional information, contact:

Lana Edwards at: [email protected] / 9967515930

OR

Preeti Prabhu at: [email protected] / 9867015095

Report Encourages “Fresh curriculum” for Canadian International Education Policy

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Source: MacLean’s via Academica | June 17, 2014

A new report published by the Canadian Council of Chief Executives (CCCE) says that Canada needs to do more to attract foreign students. The study claims that Canada is “punching below its weight” in international student enrolments, especially when recruiting from China, and emphasizes the value of international enrolments in terms of trade, international development, and diplomatic opportunities. Given increasing global competition for international enrolments, the report recommends that Canada create a new Crown corporation to promote its international education strategy and help the federal government coordinate with the provinces and territories. This body would spearhead new marketing initiatives to replace the current “Imagine Education au/in Canada” campaign. The report also recommends greater investment in an international education strategy that would encourage Canadian students to study abroad. Canada hopes to double the number of international students in Canada by 2022.

TCS Insights: While enrolment numbers for international students have rose in certain situations, Canada can still do more to bring students from abroad into the country to work towards a college or university degree. A government-run agency responsible for a national education strategy could raise enrolment rates and should be looked into further.

Use and Management of Agents by Canadian Institutions Highly Variable

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Source: CMEC Report via Academica | June 18, 2014

A new report issued by the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada outlines the use of education agents by Canadian schools. According to the report, the use of agents is common across Canada’s international education system except in Quebec, where administrators reported difficulties tapping into the demand for English-language education that typically drives international enrolment. The report also says that the recruitment and management of agents varies within Canada’s education systems. Institutions employ varying levels of regulation, with some using robust internal or provincial protocols and others relying on student complaints or feedback from peer institutions. Lesser-known institutions were more likely to depend on agents to build brand awareness than “super-league” institutions. Some respondents whose institutions depend on agents for enrolment expressed reluctance to terminate an agent’s contract even if misconduct occurred.

TCS Insights: The importance of education agents to post-secondary institutions in Canada continues to grow. Smaller schools are more likely to make use of agents but those who do enjoy many benefits. For information on CIEC Agent members, click here.

WesternU Enrolment Climbs In Spite of Provincial Trends

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Source: WesternU News Release via Academica | June 12, 2014

Western University‘s [CIEC Academic Member] projected enrolments for 2014 are increasing even as the Ontario provincial average has dipped slightly. Data from the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre indicates that WesternU’s confirmations are up by 11.6% over last year’s figures. The provincial average dropped 3% overall. Meanwhile, applications and confirmations from out-of-province and international students also climbed. Applications rose 10.4% and confirmations 14%, compared to a 5.3% increase Ontario-wide. The results confirm the success of a number of recruitment initiatives launched by WesternU in the past year, including a social media campaign, enhanced e-newsletters, and student video testimonals. “Western’s admission numbers reflect the collaborative efforts of the faculty and staff across campus,” said WesternU Provost Janice Deakin.

TCS Insights: While provincial enrolment numbers have slipped, Western University is taking steps to increasing their domestic and international student population. These efforts on the part of the university exemplify a commitment to making the institution a notable destination for students looking to attain a higher education.

International Student Enrolment in BC Grows

International Student Enrolment in BC Grows

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Source: BC News Release via Academica | June 6, 2014

A record number of international students enrolled at British Columbia PSE institutions in 2012–13, according to new figures. The province saw a 20% increase in international students, growing from 94,000 in 2009–10 to 112,800 in 2012–13. The increase was largely driven by applicants from India and China, whose numbers increased by 188% and 68%, respectively, over the 3-year period. The influx of international students has also benefited the BC economy. The new figures say that international students spent approximately $2.3 billion in BC on tuition, accommodation, and other living expenses, as well as on arts, culture, and recreation. This figure marks a 28% increase from 2009–10. International students’ dollars helped support 25,500 jobs. BC hopes to increase the number of international students coming to the province by 50% by 2016, in accordance with the federal International Education Strategy.

TCS Insights: Students from India are making an impact as they choose to study abroad in Canada. The impact on the economy of British Columbia has been clear and the province is looking to further this trend in the coming years.

BrockU Launches Recruiting Website for International Students

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Source: BrockU News Release via Academica | May 22, 2014

Brock University has launched a new website designed to help attract and assist international students. The website describes for students the variety of programs available at Brock and offers information about campus life and the Niagara region. Students will also be able to access information on policies and procedures that will be relevant following their application, including information on applying for study permits, registering for courses, and paying fees. The site includes a calendar of important dates, including dates and times of recruitment events. It is currently available in English and Chinese, but plans are in place to add additional languages.

TCS Insights: Brock University is beginning the process of becoming a major destination for students coming to Canada from abroad. By launching this website to provide prospective students with the information they need before enrolling at Brock, they are letting students know that there may be a place for them at their institution.

Canadian Business Schools Make Executive Education Rankings

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Source: Globe & Mail via Academica | May, 16, 2014

The Financial Times has released its 2014 ranking of executive education programs at business schools, with 6 Canadian institutions making the list in the open enrolment category (top 70), and 4 in the customized programs (top 80) category. In the open enrolment category, University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management tied for 20th spot, followed by Ivey Business School at Western University (22); Queen’s University’s School of Business (28); York University’s Schulich School of Business (39); Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia (49); and the University of Alberta’s School of Business (66). In the customized programs category, Rotman placed 42nd followed by Ivey (45), Schulich (57), and Alberta (77). uAlberta was a newcomer to both lists this year.

TCS Insights: Canadian institutions are continuing to see their reputations rise in 2014 as another ranking system has validated what Leiden, Times Higher Education and others have said. International students would do well to consider pursuing higher education in Canada.

Canada’s Higher Ed System Again Ranks Third in World

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Source: The Chronicle of Higher Education via Academica | May 14, 2014

Universitas 21 has released its 2014 Rankings report, which ranks national higher ed systems as opposed to individual institutions. Canada has once again come in at third place, following the US and Sweden in first and second, respectively. The rankings consider 50 countries which are ranked separately in 4 areas (Resources, Environment, Connectivity, and Output) before being ranked overall. Each area includes 24 measures in order to “create a very detailed picture of the higher education system in each country.” New this year is a separate ranking that includes the other 4 areas, but adds consideration of each country’s GDP and income levels; in this second ranking, Canada falls to 7th, with Sweden, Finland, and Denmark leading the pack. This is the third year that Universitas 21 has released national system rankings.

TCS Insights: The latest Universitas rankings further solidify where Canada stands as a nation in terms of being able to provide a worthwhile higher education. These findings support previous studies that rank Canada as the third most desirable destination for business school graduates and second when it comes to access to a post-secondary education.

Canadian Universities Work With India on Water for Health Project

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Source: uAlberta News via Academica | May 9, 2014

A joint initiative between Canadian universities and the Government of India will help provide people in need with safe drinking water. The $3-million Water for Health initiative brings together India’s Department of Biotechnology and IC-IMPACTS, a Canada–India Research Centre of Excellence [and CIEC Academic Member]. The University of Alberta will play a critical role researching management practices for safe drinking water, including quality monitoring and finding affordable treatment solutions. The University of British Columbia, meanwhile, will focus on sustainable infrastructure and the University of Toronto will tackle public health. “We have a common goal, a common passion to make a big difference in Canada and India,” said uAlberta professor Sushanta Mitra. It is hoped that the research will benefit not only India but also the 5 million people in Canada who do not have access to safe drinking water.

TCS Insights: Established educational institutions from across Canada are taking initiative to aid those without access to safe drinking water in India. The impact of this work will not only grow the relationship between both nations but will help citizens in need on both sides of the world.

Nova Scotia Announces Funding for Aboriginal, International Student Programs; Innovation Projects

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Source: NS News Release via Academica | May 9, 2014

Nova Scotia has announced $5 million in funding for 9 new projects at its universities. This round of Excellence and Innovation Fund-supported projects focuses on reaching international and aboriginal students, simplifying application procedures, and promoting innovation in the province. Cape Breton University will work with Unama’ki College to improve educational accessibility for aboriginal learners, while CBU, Saint Mary’s University, and Acadia University will study ways to offer local academic programs in Zhuhai, China. At the University of King’s College, the funding will support a pilot project to recruit and retain students from the United States; Mount Saint Vincent University, meanwhile, will devote money to enhancing its International Education Centre. The funding will also support 4 “sandbox” projects that will offer spaces for students and industry to develop ideas that have the potential to grow into business opportunities.

TCS Insights: The province of Nova Scotia continues to welcome international students by allocating more funding for projects, programs and new student centres. Such commitment will help maintain the level of enrolment of foreign students in the Maritime region of Canada.

uCalgary Opts For Multi-modal International Recruitment Strategy

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Source: uCalgary News via Academica | April 28, 2014

 

The University of Calgary has decided against outsourcing its international student recruitment efforts. Instead, the uCalgary board of governors has approved a plan that would see international students come to the university via a combination of internal programs that would include direct international recruitment, new partnership programs, and a revised English for Academic Purposes program designed to help students make the transition into a degree program. “This model creates opportunities for increasing international diversity while at the same time taking careful consideration in balancing access for our local student population,” said Provost/VP Academic Dru Marshall. uCalgary had considered developing partnerships with third-party recruiting providers, but met resistance from the uCalgary Faculty Association (TUCFA) who alleged that outsourcing would violate their collective bargaining agreement. TUCFA President Paul Rogers issued a statement lauding uCalgary’s new approach, stating that it “appears to deal with the main items that were of concern to the Association last semester.”

TCS Insights: uCalgary is putting increased efforts into the recruiting of international students without outsourcing any of their recruitment measures. The university itself will be implementing various new programs aimed at attracting students from abroad to study and perhaps pursue bright futures in Alberta.

Canada Ranks Third Among Global Destinations For Business Grad Students

Canada Ranks Third Among Global Destinations For Business Grad Students

CIEC Author

Source: Graduate Management Admission Council via Academica | April 22, 2014

An American study has found that Canada ranks third among global destinations for graduate business students. The report, which surveyed 12,000 prospective graduate business students, indicates that Canada is a target for 5% of respondents, behind only the US (70%) and Europe (15%). Canadian business schools’ global profiles have been enhanced by a number of marketing campaigns initiated by the federal government as well as through interuniversity recruitment and marketing campaigns. A complementary report, which surveyed nearly 240,000 GMAT test-takers, indicated that Canada’s visa policies for students and skilled workers may explain Canada’s popularity. International students submitted 63% of all GMAT test scores sent to Canada in 2013, up from 48% in 2009, and foreign students accounted for 29% of all students who took the test within Canada.

TCS Insights: Visa policies and improved marketing have contributed to Canada’s reputation as a place to pursue a higher education for international business students. These students comprise a growing portion of total writers of GMAT tests and the country looks to continue this trend.

Universities Must Play A Role In Attracting & Keeping Talent In Atlantic Canada

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Source: Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission via Academica | April 21, 2014

The Association of Atlantic Universities (AAU) is urging its members to team with governments and the private sector to take action attracting and retaining international and out-of-province students. The organization issued the call in response to new reports from the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission (MPHEC) and the Nova Scotia Commission on Building Our New Economy. The former report shows that the number of international and out-of-province students in Atlantic Canada is growing rapidly, while the latter argues that building a better economy is required to maintain this talent. The AAU says that universities can help by providing a highly trained talent pool for businesses in the Atlantic provinces. However, moving forward will require strong partnerships between universities, governments, and the private sector. The AAU cites the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration program as one opportunity for further collaboration.

TCS Insights: Atlantic Canadian provinces are looking to increase the number of out-of-province students who stay in the region after they complete their studies. In order to do this, universities and both the public and private sectors will do more in the future to prepare students for careers in the Maritimes.

83% of Ontario College Grads Employed Within 6 Months of Graduation

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Source: Colleges Ontario News Release | April 15, 2014

 

According to Colleges Ontario’s latest Key Performance Indicators (KPI) report, 83.4% of college graduates find employment within just 6 months of graduation. Employers are also pleased: over 92% of respondents reported feeling satisfied or very satisfied with the graduates they have hired. While impressive, these numbers are relatively static compared to the KPI reports issued in the last two years. Linda Franklin, CEO of Colleges Ontario, said that “the benefits of a college education continue to be clear” but urged Ontario colleges to expand their 3-year and 4-year degree program offerings. Colleges Ontario also noted that “it will be important for the province to promote the value of college education as Ontario strives to address the youth unemployment and underemployment challenges.”  The full report further breaks down the results by college.

TCS Insights: The province of Ontario continues to tout the ability to meet college graduates with job opportunities soon after they complete their studies. International students looking to remain in Canada for a time after their academic experience ends should consider fulfilling their studies in Ontario.

COTR Tops International Student Barometer for Second Year in a Row

COTR Tops International Student Barometer for Second Year in a Row

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Source COTR News Release via Academica | April 10, 2014

The International Student Barometer has recognized College of the Rockies [CIEC Academic Member] as the top institution in the world for overall international student satisfaction. This is the second year in a row that COTR has been recognized as the leader in international student satisfaction in Canada, and the first time it has achieved the top ranking worldwide. The survey polls nearly 150,000 international students at 176 PSE institutions worldwide, representing 13 countries. Survey respondents rated COTR in arrival experience, learning, living, and support. COTR scored particularly well for program organization and social activities, as well as for learning support, teaching, and lecture quality. Approximately 200 international students from over 30 countries enrolled at COTR in the 2013-14 academic year.

TCS Insights: College of the Rockies has not only earned maintained its reputation as the top institution for international studies in Canada but has now gained the title of being the most satisfying for international students in the world. COTR remains a top destination for students coming to Canada from abroad looking to find academic success at a post-secondary level.

New Initiatives at uRegina Business School

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Source: Leader-Post via Academica | April 7, 2014

The Faculty of Business Administration at the University of Regina has recently launched a number of initiatives designed to help make the school “known as Canada’s school for experiential education and research,” explains Dean Andrew Gaudes. One interesting initiative is the Hill Legacy Pin program for undergraduate students in the Paul J Hill School of Business; incoming students get a pin that they are expected to wear at university events and that will be exchanged for an Alumni ring upon graduation. The graduate hands the pin to a new incoming student along with a letter of reflection, creating an “instant mentorship.” Another initiative is a new bundling program that allows students to take courses outside of the business school that focus on one country of interest. This gives students in-depth knowledge of a specific area combined with business skills. In addition, the MBA program has developed a more international focus, a new postgraduate diploma helps students “top up” and prepare for an MBA, and articulation agreements with international schools are being explored.

TCS Insights: uRegina is taking new strides in order to better their reputation as an destination for students interested in first-hand learning experiences. By allowing students to complete a portion of their studies in different countries, they will be able to acquire knowledge and experience in regions they aspire to do business in during their careers.