Dingwall calls for more help for international students
SYDNEY — Cape Breton University president David Dingwall is calling on the federal government for more support for international students currently studying in Canada.
While he congratulated the government on its support of post-secondary students during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Canada Emergency Student Benefit announced recently, he noted not all post-secondary students are eligible to apply.
“Although this benefit is welcomed news, by limiting the benefit to only Canadians and permanent residents, it fails to recognize the contributions that international students make to Canada and its post-secondary education system — diversifying our classrooms and learning experiences, enhancing and expanding research capacity and helping to advance communities across the country,” Dingwall said in a news release.
“Like Canadian students, international students are facing hardship due to COVID-19.
Many rely on employment during the summer months to help support their education and gain experience to reach their career goals, an option that is now in jeopardy. Opening the CESB to international students will send a strong message, ensuring Canada remains a top educational destination for international learners,” Dingwall said.
He noted that in 2020, it is estimated that international students will stimulate about $22 billion in annual economic activity in Canada, a substantial increase from 2016 when the impact was $15.5 billion.
The Association of Atlantic Universities reported in October 2019 that Nova Scotia was home to 11,817 international students studying at universities across the province.
“The impact on our small province is enormous,” said Dingwall. “I am confident that Universities Canada and its members will continue to advocate for our international students.”