OTTAWA, Canada – India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, recently highlighted the need for Canadians to rebuild their country’s reputation as a welcoming destination for international students. Verma expressed concerns over the exploitation of students, leading to tragic outcomes for some. He emphasized the vital role Indian students play in advancing technological knowledge in both countries.
Verma’s remarks came during a discussion with the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations, where he addressed the challenges faced by Indian students in Canada due to exploitation. He mentioned the significant rise in international student permits in recent years, prompting the Canadian government to implement a two-year cap on foreign student admissions.
The envoy pointed out that India is the primary source of international students in Canada, but the presence of fraudulent schools has resulted in detrimental consequences for students and their families. Verma highlighted cases where students have faced exploitation, leading to unfortunate deaths, highlighting the vulnerability of many students who come from humble backgrounds.
With Canadian universities and colleges increasingly relying on international student recruitment to offset funding shortfalls, the pressure on students to finance their studies has intensified. Reports indicate that some students are working full-time to sustain themselves financially, raising concerns about their well-being and future prospects in Canada.
In light of the challenges faced by international students, especially those from India, Verma stressed the importance of raising awareness and providing support. He encouraged students to share their experiences on social media to educate others and empower parents to make informed decisions about their children’s education abroad.
Overall, Verma underscored the urgent need to restore Canada’s reputation as an ideal destination for studying, emphasizing the significance of addressing exploitation and providing adequate support to ensure a safe and enriching experience for all international students. This call for action aims to safeguard the well-being and success of students pursuing educational opportunities in Canada.