Ottawa, Canada – India’s envoy to Ottawa is urging Canadians to rebuild their country’s reputation as a destination for talented students, expressing concern over the exploitation and tragic deaths of international students. High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma emphasized the vital role Indian students in Canada play in advancing technological knowledge for both nations during a speech at the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations.
Verma highlighted the issue of exploitation undermining the contributions of Indian students in Canada, pointing out the presence of fraudulent schools that have misled Indian families, leading to devastating consequences. With Canada experiencing a significant increase in study permits in recent years and over one million international students currently studying in the country, the government has imposed a two-year cap on foreign student admissions to address the challenges faced by the international student program.
The top source of international students in Canada is India, but Verma revealed that unethical educational practices have resulted in student deaths, creating a stir in India. He emphasized the sacrifices made by many students who come from impoverished families, with parents selling valuable assets to fund their education in Canada. Verma expressed the emotional toll of witnessing the loss of Indian students, indicating that the exploitation of vulnerable students has been a prevalent issue.
Canadian educational institutions have increasingly relied on international student recruitment to compensate for funding shortfalls, putting pressure on students who often struggle to afford the high costs of studying in Canada. Reports have surfaced of international students working long hours to make ends meet, while others face financial uncertainty, questioning their decision to pursue education in Canada. Tragic incidents of Indian students dying in Canada, particularly due to drug overdoses, have raised concerns within the community.
Verma urged Indian students in Canada to share their experiences on social media to raise awareness about the challenges they encounter and showcase how they have overcome obstacles. Emphasizing the crucial role of parents in decision-making, Verma stressed the importance of providing realistic information in multiple languages to educate families about the realities of studying in Canada. He called for a collective effort to restore Canada’s reputation as a desirable educational destination, addressing the negative impact of exploitation on the “Brand Canada” image in the field of education.
The envoy’s remarks paint a sobering picture of the struggles faced by international students in Canada and underscore the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm. As discussions continue on reforming the international student program and enhancing support services, the well-being and safety of students remain a top priority for both Canadian and Indian authorities. Verma’s advocacy for transparency and accountability in the education sector serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all students pursuing their academic goals in Canada.